Fanatiz Launches New Pay-TV Channel and YouTube Hub for South American Soccer Fans
Fanatiz, an over-the-top soccer streaming platform owned by Fz Sports, is expanding its U.S. presence by launching a 24/7 linear pay-TV channel, Fanatiz1, alongside an interactive YouTube streaming hub. The new services provide access to live matches from Brazil’s Brasileirão Série A, Peru’s Liga1, and Venezuela’s Liga FutVe, aiming to reach a younger demographic of Hispanic viewers.
Did You Know? The new Fanatiz1 pay-TV channel is programmed to broadcast up to 15 live soccer matches per week, supplemented by original analysis, debate shows, and exclusive pre- and post-match coverage.
Strategic Expansion into Hybrid Media
The launch represents a shift toward a hybrid media model for the platform. According to Juan Pablo Buscaglione, general manager of Fanatiz, the goal is to create a “360-degree omnichannel ecosystem” that allows fans to access content across both traditional pay-TV and digital platforms. The company reports that its strategy is built on the premise that U.S.-based Hispanic soccer fans are increasingly gravitating toward streaming services.
Fz Sports vice president of media and content, Rafael López, noted that the U.S. is home to 30 million Hispanic soccer fans, a demographic that already spends more than half of its viewing time on streaming platforms. By integrating a YouTube destination with a linear channel, the company intends to foster a sense of community through creator-led content and interactive features.
Expert Insight
Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that this move reflects a broader industry trend where niche sports broadcasters are moving away from digital-only exclusivity to capture broader market share. By diversifying into linear pay-TV, Fanatiz is attempting to minimize friction for viewers who prefer traditional television interfaces while maintaining the interactive, community-driven digital engagement that defines their core streaming product.
Future Market Projections
The company is positioning itself to capitalize on the ongoing migration of sports viewership. Fz Sports projects that total combined subscriptions across its pay-TV and digital platforms could reach 500 million by 2027 in the U.S. market. As the platform scales, it is likely that the volume of original programming and the number of league partnerships could evolve to further align with the viewing habits of its “digitally native” audience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What leagues will be available on the new Fanatiz channels?
The coverage includes Brazil’s Brasileirão Série A, Peru’s Liga1, Venezuela’s Liga FutVe, and Brazil’s National Futsal League (LNF).
How many matches will be broadcast on Fanatiz1?
The channel is set to broadcast up to 15 live matches per week.
What is the primary target audience for this expansion?
Fanatiz is targeting a younger, digitally native Hispanic audience in the United States.
How will the integration of interactive YouTube content change the way you consume live sports broadcasts?