International broadcaster Eurosport is set to launch a specialised cycling portal in Spain.
Fernando Ruiz Álvarez, sports editorial senior manager at Eurosport in Spain, told Spanish sports business website Palco23 that the broadcaster sees a “very strong potential” for cycling in the country.
Palco23 reported that the portal would be an immersive experience, providing viewers with the chance to compete in races themselves through a dedicated app. “In today’s world you cannot stay linear, since the digital aspect and presence are very important,” Ruiz said.
The portal could also include travel services, along with nutrition and training tutorials and videos analysing bikes and other products.
Eurosport holds Spanish rights to more than 30 cycling races this year. It is available in Spain through the Movistar Plus, Vodafone and Orange platforms, among others.
In January, Eurosport’s parent company, US media group Discovery, significantly increased its stake in digital sports media company Play Sports Group, furthering its effort to create the world’s leading cycling media ecosystem.
David Zaslav, president and chief executive of Discovery, said last month that the company is keen on adding to its sports portfolio, and that it is “opportunistic” in using sport as a means to drive engagement.