US media group Discovery has struck a deal with Amazon to bring Eurosport Player, the OTT platform of its international sports broadcaster, to the technology company’s Fire TV, Fire tablets and Echo Show devices in Europe.
Amazon’s Fire TV service will become one of Eurosport Player’s preferred streaming media players in Europe. The alliance will provide Fire TV customers with access to Eurosport’s sports content in available countries, including the Olympic Games.
Eurosport Player customers with Fire TV devices will be able to watch Tokyo’s 2020 summer Olympic Games in 4K Ultra High Definition in all countries where Eurosport has the rights to the Games and where 4K is available. Fire TV customers will also have access to a free, daily Olympic highlights show produced by Eurosport for viewers in a number of key markets.
Amazon and Eurosport will work together to offer Eurosport Player with the purchase of some Fire TV devices in certain territories. In addition, Amazon will be purchasing Eurosport Player annual subscription passes to offer to selected customers when they purchase Fire TV devices.
The recommended retail price for a Eurosport Player annual pass is currently between €39.99 ($44) and €69.99 per year depending on the market.
In addition to the voice control Alexa brings to Fire TV and Echo Show, Amazon and Eurosport will work together to create unique Alexa utterances for sports fans. Eurosport Digital general manager Paul Rehrig said the deal will “set a new bar” for sports streaming services in Europe.
He added: “Amazon shares our focus on product innovation and providing the best possible experience for our customers. They have proven global leadership in personalised customer experiences and extensive, engaged audiences in each country. Together, we’re committed to our shared goal of upgrading the Eurosport Player app for Fire TV and supporting 4K UHD streaming, giving fans unforgettable sports content experiences.
“This is the first of many enhancements we are making to Eurosport’s digital services ahead of Tokyo 2020 as we continue to develop our award-winning direct-to-consumer products for fans who want a fuller and more immersive viewing experience.”