DAZN Acquires Control of Foxtel’s Sports Streaming Assets in $2.1 Billion Deal with News Corp

Global sports streaming company DAZN has acquired full control of Australian pay-TV and streaming provider Foxtel’s sports broadcasting assets in a $2.1 billion deal with News Corp, marking one of the largest international sports media transactions of the year. The acquisition strengthens DAZN’s presence in the Asia-Pacific region and expands its reach into one of the world’s most competitive and sports-centric media markets.

The agreement grants DAZN operational and strategic control over Foxtel’s sports platforms, including streaming service Kayo Sports and Fox Sports Australia’s broadcast portfolio. Key rights include Australia’s domestic and international cricket coverage, the National Rugby League (NRL), the Australian Football League (AFL), and select motorsport and tennis properties. News Corp, the former majority stakeholder, will retain a minority interest in the restructured entity. The deal remains subject to regulatory approval, though both companies have indicated confidence in its completion.

DAZN Group CEO Shay Segev commented on the transaction, stating, “Australia is one of the most passionate sports markets globally. Acquiring Foxtel’s sports division allows us to build on that foundation with a proven subscriber base, strong content rights, and advanced streaming capabilities. This is a strategic leap forward in our global vision.”

The acquisition aligns with DAZN’s broader strategy of diversifying its geographical footprint and scaling its direct-to-consumer sports business. Australia offers an attractive market with high digital adoption, strong demand for domestic sports content, and a proven appetite for subscription-based viewing models. The integration of Kayo’s user base and Foxtel’s rights inventory provides immediate commercial leverage and operational efficiencies across streaming infrastructure, content packaging, and ad-supported tiers.

More broadly, the transaction exemplifies a trend of vertical integration in the global sports media landscape. As competition intensifies between traditional broadcasters and digital platforms, streaming-first operators like DAZN are consolidating control over both rights and distribution. The ability to manage end-to-end delivery strengthens pricing power, improves data capture, and enhances long-term monetisation potential.

While regulatory attention may focus on consumer pricing and content exclusivity, the competitive dynamics of the Australian market—featuring major players such as Paramount, Disney, and Amazon—are expected to mitigate monopoly concerns. News Corp’s retained interest may also support continuity in regional partnerships and media operations.

The acquisition marks a defining step in DAZN’s transition from a European-focused streaming upstart to a global sports media operator with a diversified portfolio of rights and platforms. It reflects the industry’s continued shift toward digital-first delivery and strategic ownership of both content and distribution in shaping the future of sports consumption.