Amagi’s new Amagi Global FAST Report signals a remarkable surge in sports content within the free ad-supported streaming TV (FAST) sector. This 13th edition of the report reveals a staggering 150% rise in global sports channel viewership on FAST, dwarfing the general viewership growth of 40%. This clearly illustrates the soaring demand for sports programming among streaming audiences.
The report highlights that live sports content on FAST has experienced rapid expansion, recording a 65% increase in live sports hours. In the EMEA region, sports channel viewership grew nearly 4.5 times, largely driven by the introduction of new channels. The US and Canada account for 60% of global viewership, showcasing triple-digit growth figures for sports channel viewership and impressions.
Notably, the report indicates that executives prioritise live sports in their FAST content strategies. Approximately one-third of the surveyed executives currently have or plan to include live sports in their content line-up, while another third are keen to add this element. Moreover, over two-thirds (67%) are witnessing heightened advertiser interest in live sports.
Srinivasan KA, Co-founder and Chief Revenue Officer of Amagi, remarked on the findings: “Incorporating sports content into FAST platforms marks a pivotal shift in the streaming landscape, creating new avenues for both big leagues and niche sports to connect with and grow their audiences. Our report emphasises the growing significance of sports content in the FAST ecosystem. With the rise in sports channel viewership greatly surpassing overall growth, it is evident that FAST is emerging as a vital platform for sports leagues and broadcasters looking for distribution revenue.”
This report delivers key data and insights from over 2,800 channels utilising Amagi Thunderstorm, the company’s server-side ad insertion platform. It also includes insights from a survey of 128 streaming, broadcast, and sports executives, shedding light on how major and niche sports organisations leverage FAST to broaden their reach and engage viewers in innovative ways.
