FIFA, the international governing body of soccer, is reportedly seeking a significant financial injection to propel its streaming service, FIFA+, to the next level. According to a Bloomberg News report published on Thursday, FIFA is aiming to raise to $2 billion from investors.
The fundraising effort, expected to formally launch next month, will target financial institutions in the United States and the Middle East. Working alongside investment bank UBS Group AG, FIFA is seeking a minority stake in FIFA+ in exchange for a capital infusion.
Launched in 2022, FIFA+ has established itself as a free ad-supported streaming service, offering live soccer matches to fans around the world. The potential $2 billion investment suggests FIFA’s ambitious plans to expand the platform’s content library, potentially including exclusive matches, archived footage, or original programming.
While both FIFA and UBS declined to comment on the report, the news has sparked discussions about the future of FIFA+. Here are some key points to consider:
- Enhanced Content Offerings: The influx of capital could allow FIFA+ to acquire rights to broadcast additional live matches, particularly from leagues and tournaments outside the traditional powerhouses of Europe and South America. This could significantly broaden the service’s appeal to fans worldwide.
- Original Programming: The investment might also pave the way for the creation of original content on FIFA+, such as documentaries, behind-the-scenes features, or even scripted shows focused on the beautiful game.
- Subscription Model: While currently free with advertisements, the financial boost could lead to the introduction of a subscription tier offering premium features such as ad-free viewing or access to exclusive content.
