Optus Considering Sale of Sports Streaming Platform to Nine Entertainment

Australia’s second-largest telecom provider, Optus, owned by Singapore Telecommunications (SingTel), is reportedly exploring the sale of its sports streaming service, Optus Sport, to media company Nine Entertainment. According to the Australian Financial Review (AFR), the deal could transfer English Premier League streaming rights to Nine’s Stan streaming platform, enabling Optus to concentrate on its core telecommunications business.

The negotiations come amid a wave of significant moves in Australia’s media and sports broadcasting landscape. Last month, British sports network DAZN acquired Foxtel for A$3.4 billion ($2.11 billion), gaining access to Australian Football League and National Rugby League rights. This acquisition sets the stage for DAZN's entry into the Australian market, further intensifying competition among streaming platforms.

Nine Entertainment’s potential acquisition of Optus Sport aligns with its efforts to strengthen Stan’s sports offerings. By securing Premier League rights, Stan could gain a competitive edge in the lucrative sports streaming sector, which continues to grow in popularity among Australian viewers.

Neither Optus, Nine Entertainment, nor SingTel has commented on the ongoing talks.

As streaming services increasingly vie for exclusive sports content, this potential transaction highlights the shift in focus for telecom companies like Optus, prioritizing their primary services over content platforms. The deal, if finalized, could reshape Australia’s media landscape and further drive competition in sports broadcasting.

With sports rights becoming a pivotal asset for digital platforms, the outcome of these negotiations could have far-reaching implications for fans and the broader streaming market.