The Premier League launches its own streaming platform in Singapore
The Premier League is entering the streaming arena with the launch of its own platform, named “Premier League Plus,” set to debut in Singapore next season, reports BritPanorama.
Chief executive Richard Masters announced the initiative at the FT Business of Football Conference, marking the first direct-to-consumer venture for the league in Singapore. This move accompanies a six-year agreement with StarHub, allowing fans in the region to access the service directly.
“For the first time, we’re going direct-to-consumer in Singapore,” Masters stated, emphasizing the carefully considered nature of this new approach. This represents a significant shift, allowing the league to interact directly with its customer base.
Masters elaborated on the strategic importance of the launch, noting that the Premier League will manage various aspects such as promotion, pricing, and distribution. This venture is not limited to Singapore; it serves as a learning opportunity to assess potential applications elsewhere globally.
The chief executive reiterated that the league has “taken control of our content,” thus enabling expansive future possibilities. Given the rising costs of viewing football in England, where fans often must subscribe to multiple services such as Sky Sports and TNT Sports to watch matches, this move could be seen as a way to simplify and reduce costs for viewers.
Meanwhile, the broadcasting landscape in the UK remains complex, with Paramount+ expected to add to the mix next season after securing Champions League rights, while Sky takes on Europa and Conference League matches. The current broadcasting rights package, running from 2025 to 2029, has reached an estimated total of £6.7 billion.
The announcement has generated considerable discussion online, with many fans speculating that Singapore might serve as a pilot for a more extensive service. Some supporters expressed optimism that a successful model could eventually lead to a streamlined, globally accessible offering at a manageable price point.
However, skepticism persists, with some observers predicting a disparity in pricing between the UK and international markets. Many have long advocated for a centralized, Netflix-style product to simplify coverage and alleviate the financial burden on fans.
This rollout represents not only a tactical move for the Premier League but a potentially transformative moment in how football is broadcast and consumed worldwide, uniquely positioning the league to directly engage with its audience in a rapidly evolving media landscape.
The evolution of how football is delivered to fans is about more than just convenience; it reflects a wider shift in the industry, showcasing both ambition and the challenges at play in satisfying a global audience.
