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Eutelsat and MuxIP to launch sports channels across EMENA via satellite

Under the agreement, MuxIP is distributing an initial selection of FAST channels, free-to-air for audiences and advertisers across EMENA, on Eutelsat’s flagship HOTBIRD satellites at 13° East.

Eutelsat Group, in collaboration with MuxIP, a leader in next-generation media SaaS technologies for ad-supported streaming, has announced an initiative to bring a selection of global sports channels from FAST (Free Advertising Supported TV) platforms to audiences across Europe, the Middle East and North Africa (EMENA) via satellite.

This partnership marks a first-of-its-kind agreement, with MuxIP distributing an initial set of FAST channels free-to-air across EMENA on Eutelsat’s flagship HOTBIRD satellites at 13° East. The initial channels include World Poker Tour, featuring internationally televised poker events with exclusive content and expert analysis, Cricket Gold, showcasing 40 years of classic cricket action, and Outdoor Channel, highlighting outdoor lifestyles and personalities.

The channels are currently distributed on FAST platforms in the US, Canada, Australia, India and other parts of the world. Under this partnership, versions customised for European audiences, will now be distributed in the UK, continental Europe, the Middle East and North Africa.

Speaking about the collaboration, Laurence Delpy, President of Eutelsat’s Video Business Unit, said: “We are delighted to collaborate with MuxIP on this innovative initiative. Thanks to the extensive reach of satellite, we are able to increase the distribution of these sports TV channels from around the world, bringing them free-to-air to new audiences beyond terrestrial networks, supported by advertising aligned with the FAST Industry”.

Frank Brown, MD International at MuxIP, added: “For these channels, the integration of the exploding FAST industry together with the expansive reach of satellite is an extremely powerful combination. The relevant audiences and advertisers will all benefit enormously from the launch of these unique TV channels in the EMENA regions.”