Irish sports TV player Setanta has signed a deal with US telecoms giant Verizon to provide access to more than 1,000 live sports events across advanced fibre-optic networks that traverse the States.
The Setanta programmes will be delivered to TV subscribers via the most advanced fibre-optic networks currently stretching across the US, reaching 6.5 million homes in 13 states.
“Advanced fibre-optic networks are another great way to watch our live world-class soccer and rugby matches,” said Roger Hall, CEO of Setanta.
“Joining Verizon FiOS TV is a natural next step for Setanta as we work to provide die-hard fans across the US with the highest-quality international sports content.”
Setanta will provide 24-hour ‘armchair access’ to Verizon FiOS TV, which offers more than 400 all-digital channels including 30 high-definition channels and access to more than 10,000 on-demand products.
Headquartered in Dublin, Setanta Sports operates the only dedicated international sports and rugby channel in the US.
In 2006, the 24-hour, digital pay TV network aired more than 1,000 live events, including European and international soccer, world-class rugby and other sports programming designed to meet the growing demands of international sports fans living in North America.
“Sports content is incredibly popular and important to today’s consumers, and Verizon’s FiOS TV subscribers are looking for the very best channel offerings,” said Terry Denson, vice-president, FiOS TV content and programming.
“Setanta will be a great new addition to our channel line-up, giving our customers a front seat to some of their favourite sports,” Denson added.
By John Kennedy
