DC United has signed a multi-year contract with subscription-based OTT service FloSports to carry its non-nationally-televised games.
The deal, which includes English- and Spanish-language broadcasts, represents the first agreement for the Austin-based startup with a major professional sports league. Financial terms were not disclosed.
The company is launching a dedicated soccer outlet launching called FloFC, which will house DC United games, as well as original programming and exclusive content such as behind-the-scenes access and pre-season training coverage.
A number of MLS teams have secured deals with OTT platforms. Chicago Fire have a partnership with ESPN+ while LA FC, Seattle Sounders and Orlando City have deals with YouTube TV.
A subscription to FloSports costs $150 annually or $30 per month but a reduced rate for DC United games only is likely to be introduced.
“The decision was very much based on what our options were and what was going to best for our fans to really connect with the team,” said Sam Porter, United’s senior vice-president for business and legal affairs. “What FloSports is going to offer is more in-depth coverage and story lines around the team on a year-round basis.
“When you look at all the cord-cutting that is going on, it’s really not as radical as it would have been a couple of years ago.”