The Streaming Lab
The Streaming Lab Podcast
March Madness in Streaming: Major F1 Broadcasting Deals in MENA & India
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March Madness in Streaming: Major F1 Broadcasting Deals in MENA & India

F1 major announcements in MENA & INDIA, First Ramadan Lineup announced, Non-English content demand surges in MENA region, Transformational week in Indian media, India Today Group Originals
In 2024, Formula 1 announces a transformative 10-year broadcasting agreement with BeIN Sports, covering 25 territories across the Middle East, North Africa, and Turkey, symbolizing a major shift in sports streaming. This strategic partnership will broadcast every Formula 1 race, including practice sessions, F1 sprint events, and Grand Prix, on BeIN Sports channels and the streaming service, TOD. This move aims to cater to a growing fan base in these regions, with more than half of the new fans having joined in the last four years, indicating a surge in Formula 1's popularity. The deal represents a convergence of traditional sports broadcasting with modern digital streaming platforms, highlighting Formula 1's commitment to expanding its reach and engaging with a younger, digitally savvy audience. The inclusion of Turkey alongside MENA countries underlines the strategic importance of these regions in the global sports landscape, offering unprecedented access to high-octane racing action.

In the latest episode of The Streaming Lab Podcast, recorded on the first day of March 2024, we discuss about a series of significant announcements. From sports broadcasting deals to Ramadan content lineups and insightful market trends, this episode unpacks the "March Madness" that's transforming streaming in these vibrant regions.

Major F1 Broadcasting Deal with BeIN Sports

We kick off this episode with a major announcement in the world of sports streaming. Formula 1 has struck a monumental 10-year agreement with BeIN Sports, granting exclusive broadcasting rights across MENA and Turkey. This deal promises to deliver every adrenaline-pumping race, practice session, and F1 sprint event directly to fans through BeIN Sports channels and the Todd streaming service. Highlighting the growing popularity of F1 in the region, we discuss the strategic importance of this partnership and its potential to captivate a burgeoning young audience.

Ramadan 2024's Streaming Lineups

With Ramadan approaching, several streaming platforms have started to unveil their special content lineups for the holy month. We cover announcements from Abu Dhabi Media, emphasizing their focus on Emirati productions, and Yango Play, which has intrigued many with its impressive selection of co-productions. We explore how these lineups are designed to cater to the diverse tastes of viewers across the region, promising a Ramadan filled with drama, comedy, spirituality, and more.

Surge in Non-English Content Demand

A report highlighting a surge in demand for non-English content within the MENA region catches our attention. The study, a collaboration between RISE Studios and Parrot Analytics, reveals a significant increase in the consumption of Asian language TV and animation content. While applauding the insights, we call for more detailed analysis that acknowledges the unique cultural and linguistic diversity across MENA countries.

Streaming in India - A Transformational Week

Turning our focus to India, we discuss a "transformational week" for the media landscape, marked by a joint venture that merges Viacom18's media operations with Star India. This colossal partnership, involving giants like Reliance Industries and The Walt Disney Company, signals a major shift in sports broadcasting and OTT platforms, aiming to cater to over 750 million viewers. The episode anticipates the implications of this merger for content distribution and competition within the Indian streaming market.

Remember to follow The Streaming Lab for more updates and discussions on the evolving world of streaming, and as always, keep streaming!


The Streaming Lab podcast breaks down the latest headlines and trends shaping the future of streaming in MENA & India.

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The Streaming Lab
The Streaming Lab Podcast
Listen in as The Streaming Lab team and industry insiders break down the latest headlines and trends shaping the future of streaming in MENA & India.