AFL and NRL agree global content partnerships with Facebook

June 14, 2019

Facebook users around the world will now have access to a range of sports content from biggest sporting codes after the social media giant announced two new global partnerships for its video platform, Facebook Watch.

The new partnership with the NRL and AFL means users can catch up on highlight packages, live original programs and classic matches along with weekly wrap-up shows for both the men’s and women’s games.

Commenting on the agreement, NRL Chief Commercial Officer, Andrew Abdo stated "this is about providing another avenue for new and existing fans to access our game

“Our club members are increasing every year and our national and global audiences continue to diversify and consume their rugby league content where and when they want.”

“This is a fantastic opportunity to extend our reach and product offering across two social media platforms that reach billions of people every day.”

Julian Dunne, Head of Content and Distribution at the AFL added "the AFL is excited to continue our partnership with Facebook.

“We have such a passionate and loyal fan base and we want to ensure that our AFL and AFLW content reaches as many fans as possible and they can consume it all over the globe across the channels they prefer.”

Facebook continues to add more video content to its Facebook Watch page and is currently looking to extend its relationship with Cricket Australia which last season saw 36 of the Women’s Big Bash games live-streamed on the platform.

Facebook Australia Managing Director, Will Easton advised "each month 16 million Australians come together on the platform to connect and share with family and friends, and key sporting moments are regularly a focus of conversation.

“Sports fans on Facebook are one of the most highly engaged communities and these partnerships with the codes offer followers exciting content to engage with in new ways.

“We’re thrilled that through Facebook, Aussies will be able to get the highlights from both sports and live original programs.”

Users just need to be prepared to sit through 15-second non-skippable ads to view their favourite content.

8th March 2019 - AFL growth initiatives result in profit increase

1st March 2019 - Growing digital revenues drive NRL to $46 million profit

12th September 2018 - Figures show NRL as Australia’s most watched sport of 2018

4th June 2018 - NRL welcomes strong initial returns on digital investment

29th March 2018 - Channel 9 and Tennis Australia agree five year tournament broadcast deal

21st March 2018 - Free Commonwealth Games Wi-Fi to mine visitors’ Facebook data

26th October 2017 - Australian Open ‘Ticket Finder’ Facebook bot outsells Ticketek website

20th August 2017 - Broadcasters fake NRL live atmosphere with historic crowd footage

12th May 2017 - AFL secures last-minute Chinese broadcast deal for Shanghai game

27th April 2017 - Analysts advise Channel Nine to move away from loss-making cricket broadcast coverage

20th December 2016 - Football Federation Australia announces $346 million A-League broadcast deal

27th November 2015 - NRL announces $1.8 billion broadcast deal with Fox Sports and Channel Nine

18th August 2015 - AFL announces record-breaking $2.5 billion television deal

19th November 2013 - Sports Community shares experiences of effective use of facebook and twitter

25th September 2011 - ABC commits to broadcasting local football codes

30th March 2011 - Citigroup warns broadcasters over rise in AFL rights fees

Asking a small favour
We hope that you value the news that we publish so while you're here can we ask for your support?

The news we publish at www.ausleisure.com.au is independent, credible (we hope) and free for you to access, with no pay walls and no annoying pop-up ads.

However, as an independent publisher, can we ask for you to support us by subscribing to the printed Australasian Leisure Management magazine - if you don't already do so.

Published bi-monthly since 1997, the printed Australasian Leisure Management differs from this website in that it publishes longer, in-depth and analytical features covering aquatics, attractions, entertainment, events, fitness, parks, recreation, sport, tourism and venues management.

Subscriptions cost just $90 a year.

Click here to subscribe.