NRL And AFL Sign Global Content Partnerships With Facebook

Facebook users around the world will now have access to a range of sports content from two of Australia’s 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.

“This is about providing another avenue for new and existing fans to access our game,” NRL Chief Commercial Officer, Andrew Abdo said.

“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 said: “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.

“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,” managing director of Facebook Australia, Will Easton said.

“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.