Sports streaming giant DAZN has finalized an agreement to acquire EverPass Media, a key distributor of licensed sports programming to various commercial establishments such as hotels and bars. This strategic transaction will enable DAZN to integrate EverPass's commercial distribution rights for the highly sought-after NFL "Sunday Ticket" package, thereby strengthening its presence within the U.S. market. The acquisition is also poised to facilitate the global expansion of EverPass's content offerings to a broader international audience.
The financial specifics of this deal have not been publicly disclosed. Following the acquisition, EverPass will undergo a rebranding to become "DAZN for Business." Alex Kaplan, the current CEO of EverPass, is set to continue leading the rebranded entity while also assuming an expanded role within the DAZN organization. Existing EverPass clients are assured that their current services will continue without any interruption as a direct result of this acquisition. EverPass currently manages the commercial distribution of NFL Sunday Ticket, which includes all live out-of-market Sunday regular-season NFL games, and also provides access to various other premier sports leagues like the English Premier League, UEFA Champions League, MLB, NBA, and more, through partnerships with major streaming platforms.
Shay Segev, CEO of DAZN Group, emphasized the significance of this acquisition, stating that EverPass Media offers a well-established commercial distribution platform, extensive relationships with venues across the U.S., and a valuable portfolio of premium sports rights that perfectly complement DAZN's expanding U.S. operations. This integration means that DAZN will now be capable of serving a comprehensive range of customers in the U.S., from individual sports fans utilizing the DAZN application to commercial venues aiming to deliver an exceptional viewing experience for their patrons.
This strategic move by DAZN highlights the evolving landscape of sports broadcasting, where digital platforms are increasingly consolidating their positions through vertical integration. By acquiring EverPass, DAZN is not only expanding its market share but also enhancing its ability to deliver premium sports content across diverse consumer segments, from direct-to-consumer streaming to large-scale commercial distribution. This forward-thinking approach ensures that sports fans, whether at home or in public venues, will have unparalleled access to their favorite events, fostering a more connected and engaging global sports community. The synergy between DAZN's digital expertise and EverPass's commercial reach promises to revolutionize how sports are consumed worldwide, promoting innovation and accessibility in the industry.
