1001TV, an Iraq-based OTT streaming platform, expanded its content portfolio in 2023 by incorporating live sports alongside its original and premium offerings. As they ventured into sports media rights for the first time, they turned to us for strategic guidance. Leveraging our expertise in the sports and media landscape, we successfully helped them secure LaLiga broadcasting rights for the Iraqi market.

MEDIA RIGHTS ACQUISITION

THE MARKET OPPORTUNITY

The LaLiga x 1001 deal highlights a significant shift in how sports media rights are structured, especially in emerging markets like Iraq. Traditionally, rights for regions like MENA have been bundled into large, all-encompassing agreements with major broadcasters, leaving smaller markets under-served. By tailoring a deal specifically for Iraq, LaLiga and 1001 have tapped into an untapped opportunity. 

This deal promises to be transformative for the OTT platform. Securing exclusive rights to LaLiga, one of the most premium football leagues globally, allows the platform to offer high-demand content, attracting both new subscribers and boosting viewer engagement. In a market like Iraq, where traditional broadcasters have limited reach, 1001’s localised approach to content positions it as a pivotal partner for marquee IPs.

FOR 1001

For LaLiga, carving out Iraq from the broader MENA deal with established broadcasters like BeIn Sports allows them to monetise a market that would otherwise be overlooked, without diminishing the value of their larger regional agreements. This approach creates a new revenue stream for LaLiga while ensuring that its content reaches an audience with a deep cultural connection to football.

FOR LALIGA

OUR SERVICES

Our services for 1001 concentrated on a two-fold approach for Phase 1 of our collaboration. A benchmark analysis was conducted to provide 1001 with an overview of the existing sports media rights agreements in the MENA region as well as the value of LaLiga rights in similar territories. What followed was the negotiation and legal analysis to get the best return on investment for the streaming platform. 

We assessed various deals in comparable territories and gathered market intelligence that was indispensable for preparing the commercial negotiations. By presenting this data, 1001 gained valuable insights into the competitive environment and market potential, allowing them to position their offer more effectively. Together with 1001, we developed the business case for offering those premium rights to their audience.

BENCHMARK ANALYSIS

We provided comprehensive support in commercial negotiations and legal support. We guided 1001 through negotiations, securing favorable terms on (co-)exclusivity, sublicensing, revenue-sharing models, and content distribution that aligned with both their growth objectives and LaLiga’s goals

NEGOTIATION & IMPACT ANALYSIS

“LaSource has proven to be an invaluable partner, bringing together a deep expertise of the media landscape, streaming technology and the legal particularities of sports broadcasting. Leander and his team have been instrumental in negotiating and securing this significant milestone for 1001 and for sports fans across Iraq”

William Page, Co-Founder & Chief Strategy Officer, 1001

HOW DO WE HELP SPORTS RIGHTS HOLDERS AND MEDIA COMPANIES ACHIEVE GROWTH?