Roku Secures Exclusive US Streaming Rights to X Games Aspen and Summer Event
In a significant move, Roku has acquired the exclusive US streaming rights to next year’s X Games Aspen and an additional "soon-to-be-announced" X Games event in the summer. The company announced this development on Wednesday, further solidifying its push into live sports.
The X Games’ History with ESPN and MSP Sports
For those unfamiliar with the X Games, it’s worth noting that the event was founded by ESPN in the 1990s. However, in a significant shift, ESPN sold majority ownership to MSP Sports in 2022. This change has led to the X Games being streamed on various platforms, including YouTube, Twitch, ESPN, ABC, and the VR app Xtadium.
Roku’s Entry into Live Sports
With this latest acquisition, Roku is entering the fray of live sports streaming, joining other prominent players like Netflix, Max, and Amazon Prime Video. These platforms have been actively acquiring rights to popular sporting events, including NFL games on Christmas Day (Netflix), a live sports add-on for Max, and NBA games on Amazon Prime Video.
The Roku Sports Channel
Roku’s foray into live sports begins with the Roku Sports Channel, a free 24/7 hub that will feature various sports-related content. This channel is part of the overarching Roku Channel, which comes pre-installed on most Roku devices. It is also available on the web and as an app on third-party smart TVs and mobile phones.
Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV Channel for X Games
In addition to securing exclusive streaming rights, Roku has launched a free ad-supported streaming TV channel dedicated to the X Games. This channel will air programming highlights, clips, interviews, archival content, and more leading up to the event. The goal of this initiative is to provide enthusiasts with an engaging experience, even before the main event.
X Games Aspen Details
Mark your calendars for January 23rd to 25th, as X Games Aspen takes place during this time period. More details will be forthcoming on the additional X Games event scheduled for the summer. It’s worth noting that both events will air on the Roku Sports Channel, providing users with a seamless viewing experience.
Growing Competition in Live Sports Streaming
Roku is not the only player entering the live sports streaming market. As mentioned earlier, Netflix has already aired live NFL games on Christmas Day, while Max has launched a live sports add-on. Amazon Prime Video has also acquired rights to NBA games. Furthermore, Street League Skateboarding has signed a deal with the right-wing streaming platform Rumble.
Roku’s Sports Strategy
Roku’s push into live sports is a strategic move aimed at attracting more users and increasing engagement on its platform. By offering exclusive content, including X Games Aspen and other sports-related events, Roku aims to establish itself as a major player in the live sports streaming market.
Related Content
For those interested in watching sports on Roku, there are several options available:
- Roku’s Free 24/7 Sports Channel: A hub for various sports-related content, including X Games Aspen and other events.
- Roku Channel: An overarching platform featuring the Roku Sports Channel and other live sports content.
- Third-Party Smart TVs and Mobile Phones: Users can access the Roku Sports Channel through these devices.
Conclusion
With the acquisition of exclusive US streaming rights to X Games Aspen and an additional event in the summer, Roku has solidified its position in the live sports streaming market. As the competition continues to grow, it will be interesting to see how Roku’s strategy evolves and whether other players follow suit.
