Major League Soccer announced on Friday that it will offer live streaming of some league games for the first time in China.
A two-year deal with China Sports Media, a leading sports marketing agency, means the games will be available on two streaming platforms in China, K-Ball and PPTV.
K-Ball will broadcast at least three MLS regular season games each week, while PPTV will broadcast one regular season game per week, as well as the MLS All-Star Game presented by Target, Decision Day presented by AT&T, the Audi MLS Cup qualifiers and the MLS Cup. On top of that, weekly highlights and other MLS related content will be available on the platforms.
“We are delighted to be working with CSM and to see Major League Soccer reach mainland China through the K-Ball and PPTV platforms,” Gary Stevenson, president and CEO of MLS Business Ventures, said in a statement. “MLS has just had another record year in terms of footfall, audience and digital growth, this agreement is yet another example of our efforts to continue this growth around the world. China is a priority market and we are confident that CSM will help expand our presence in the region and provide MLS content to fans across the country. “
“With the global development of Major League Soccer over the years, it has grown into one of the most important leagues in the world and the CSM is happy to partner with MLS. We are confident that MLS will become the one of the most popular leagues in China thanks to our best efforts, ”said Zhao Jun, general manager of CSM.
