The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) has rebuffed Facebook's request to give it free rights to stream live football matches in emerging markets (EMs), like India or Colombia, where games are not broadcast. Insiders claimed such a deal, if agreed, could harm UEFA's future negotiations with TV broadcasters. Facebook is also reportedly considering offering its own streaming service for the World Cup, which would be available only on mobile devices. It is suggested that while smartphone penetration could restrict efforts to monetise content in EMs now, longer-term, their demographics could see Facebook’s bet pay off.
The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) has rebuffed Facebook's request to give it free rights to stream live football matches in emerging markets (EMs), like India or Colombia, where games are not broadcast. Insiders claimed such a deal, if agreed, could harm UEFA's future negotiations with TV broadcasters. Despite the decision, some say it is a matter of time before Facebook agrees a rights deal for a major sport, more than likely targeting EMs. It is suggested that while smartphone penetration could restrict efforts to monetise content in EMs now, longer-term, their demographics could see Facebook’s bet pay off.