Tabcorp is currently engaged in negotiations with Foxtel’s Kayo Sports and Nine Entertainment’s Stan Sport regarding the possibility of streaming its Sky Racing channels online, according to sources familiar with the matter who spoke to the Australian Financial Review under the condition of anonymity.
This move is seen as an effort by the betting agency to adapt to the evolving media landscape and ensure the longevity of the Sky Racing brand.
Presently, Sky Racing’s Sky 1, Sky 2, and Sky Thoroughbred Central channels are accessible to Foxtel subscribers through set-top boxes. A collaboration with Kayo appears to be a natural progression, particularly in light of Tabcorp‘s recent licensing agreement with the Nine Network, which includes the rights to the Melbourne Cup for the coming six years.
This arrangement has unexpectedly placed Nine Entertainment‘s Stan Sport in a position to potentially host the Sky Racing feeds, considering Nine‘s substantial investment in the rights to this premier racing event.
Tabcorp secured the rights to the Melbourne Cup from the Victoria Racing Club in the latter part of last year. Following this, in compliance with the federal government’s anti-siphoning legislation, it was imperative for Tabcorp to partner with a free-to-air network for the event’s broadcast.
This led to the conclusion of Network 10’s five-year agreement, initially established with a groundbreaking $100 million deal in 2018, as Nine Network emerged as the new rights holder in February.
The discussions about including Sky Racing on Stan were part of the six-month negotiation period, with Nine’s chief executive, Mike Sneesby, exploring the expansion of Stan’s content offering.
Requests for comments have been made to Tabcorp, Foxtel, and Stan by TV Blackbox.
SOURCE – AFR
