The mobile phone operator, Docomo, and sports streaming service DAZN are set to acquire broadcasting rights for the World Cup. The deal is expected to broaden the appeal of both Docomo and DAZN in Japan, facilitating greater consumer interaction with the world's largest football tournament. More information about the full terms of the agreement and future potentials are yet to be disclosed.
In Japan, football is a beloved sport, and securing broadcasts for international tournaments like the World Cup is considered significant. In addition to promoting social cohesion, given that such events are often watched together in public spaces or at home with family, they are also considered economically essential due to advertising revenue they generate. Moreover, for telecom company Docomo, this deal is an opportunity to further expand into the digital entertainment space, which aligns with the country's broader digitization efforts.
In the US or EU, broadcasting rights for major sports events are similarly significant. They generate considerable income through advertising and subscriptions and are often tied to exclusive deals with certain providers or platforms. Therefore, this deal in Japan mirrors those practices.