In December 2024, UK-based sports streaming platform DAZN acquired Australia’s Foxtel Group for AU $3.4 billion (approximately US$2.1 billion), marking a significant shift in the global sports media landscape.
This acquisition includes Foxtel’s extensive sports rights portfolio, encompassing the Australian Football League (AFL), National Rugby League (NRL), cricket, motorsports, and more.
Foxtel’s streaming services, such as Kayo Sports, BINGE, and Hubbl, will retain their brand identities while operating under the DAZN umbrella.
Expanding Global Reach
DAZN’s acquisition of Foxtel significantly enhances its position in the Asia-Pacific region, particularly in Australia which is a key sports market with passionate fans.
The move aligns with DAZN’s strategy to become the “global home of sport,” leveraging Foxtel’s established presence and sports rights to accelerate its growth.
Saudi Investment and Strategic Partnerships
Following the acquisition, DAZN has secured a $1 billion investment from Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), acquiring a stake of less than 5%.
This partnership strengthens DAZN’s ties with Saudi Arabia, which has been actively investing in sports globally, including hosting major events like the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
Additionally, DAZN has entered a multi-year agreement with LIV Golf, covering 200 territories and including exclusive rights in several countries.
This deal further solidifies DAZN’s commitment to expanding its sports portfolio and global reach.
Financial Implications and Future Outlook
Despite the strategic acquisitions, DAZN reported a net loss of $1.45 billion in 2023, primarily due to increased investments in sports media rights.
The company’s operational costs surged to $4.2 billion, with rights expenses reaching $3.1 billion.
However, DAZN projects revenues could surpass $6 billion by 2025, driven by the Foxtel acquisition and the Saudi investment.
Future of Global Sports Rights Bundling
DAZN’s acquisition of Foxtel represents a significant step towards consolidating sports media rights on a global scale.
By integrating Foxtel’s local expertise and sports rights with DAZN’s global platform, the company aims to offer a comprehensive sports streaming experience across multiple regions.
This move could set a precedent for future mergers and acquisitions in the sports media industry, as companies seek to leverage global partnerships, sponsors and investments to enhance their offerings and compete with established players like Netflix, Amazon, and others on the rise.
Want Every APSM Report In One Place?
The APSM Master Report Bundle includes all current APSM reports:
- Travis Hunter’s 2025 Net Worth Valuation
- Tyrese Haliburton’s 2025 Net Worth Valuation
- 7 Ways Athletes Build Wealth
- 7 Ways Athletes Go Broke
- (Will Include future additions of reports as APSM grows)
You’ll Get:
- Deep financial literacy designed through a sports lens
- Net Worth projections, contract forecasts & tax modeling
- Wealth frameworks & risk analysis
- Lifetime value mapping for both athletes and professionals
The most valuable way to learn the game of money through APSM.
Next Reads
- How Media Rights & Streaming Deals Influence Player Salaries
- NBC’s $3 Billion Olympic Media Rights Deal Through 2036
- Inside the NCAA’s New Partnership with Genius Sports
- Dick’s Sporting Goods Acquires Foot Locker
- Apollo’s $5 Billion Private Equity Fund Explained
Credits
Written by: Aidan Anderson
Research and Analysis: Apostle Sports Media LLC
Sources: ESPN, News Corp, DAZN Group, Financial Times, The Australian, The Guardian, Various, APSM Proprietary Analysis.
Featured Image: Public Domain / Wiki Commons
Disclaimer: This article contains general financial information for educational purposes and does not constitute as professional advice.
“Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you..”
– James 4:7
Apostle Sports Media 