StarzPlay to stream 48 Rugby World Cup matches on pop-up channel launching on September 1.
StarzPlay has secured the exclusive broadcasting rights for the Rugby World Cup 2023 in the MENA region. The highly anticipated event is scheduled to unfold in France from September 8 to October 28. As part of this deal, StarzPlay is set to live-stream all 48 matches of the tournament to rugby fans across the region.
Marking its entry into the sports streaming arena last August, StarzPlay has rapidly amassed a roster of premier sporting content, including renowned competitions like Serie A, Coppa Italia, World Championship boxing, UFC, ICC events, and the NBA League Pass. Now, the addition of the Rugby World Cup 2023, recognised as the third-largest global sporting event, further enriches the platform’s diverse offering.
Commencing on September 1, StarzPlay will introduce the dedicated streaming pop-up channel, “Starzplay Sports Rugby World Cup.” This channel will be a hub for the tournament, featuring live matches, previews, highlights, news, and captivating stories from throughout the event, alongside iconic classic matches.
Commenting on the deal, Andy Warkman, Head of Sport at StarzPlay, said: “We are thrilled to be streaming Rugby World Cup 2023 exclusively across MENA. This deal further cements our commitment to bring world-class sport to StarzPlay. We are looking forward to delivering our extensive Rugby World Cup coverage to fans and working with World Rugby to grow the sport in the region.”
Alan Gilpin, World Rugby CEO, added: “We are delighted to partner with StarzPlay to showcase Rugby World Cup 2023 in a rapidly growing rugby market. This collaboration reflects our shared vision of expanding the reach and popularity of rugby in the region, by making the sport more relevant and more accessible to more people. With StarzPlay’s commitment to delivering comprehensive and fan-friendly coverage of rugby’s showcase event, we are confident that France 2023 will be the most memorable and accessible for rugby enthusiasts across MENA.”
Starzplay’s live coverage kicks off on September 8 with the opening ceremony followed by France vs. New Zealand in the tournament opener.