Twitch introduces sports channel, partners with Real Madrid, NBA, UFC among others

Amazon-owned Twitch is usually go-to streaming platform for professional gamers. While YouTube seems to be popular platform for streaming gaming sessions in Asia, users in  rth American region generally flock to Twitch and Discord for content around popular gaming titles like DOTA 2, COD and Fortnite. As it appears, Twitch is looking to expand its horizons and enter market of streaming content around sports. 

Also Read | Apex Legends Pathfinder Grapple Nerf; Legend Gets A New Twitch Prime Skin

Twitch sports to be a stand-alone channel

company, which recently started expanding into in-real-life (IRL) content like live events and competitions, is looking to include a new section called 'Twitch Sports' dedicated to broadcasting games. According to brand's latest statement, Twitch Sports will be home for all featured sports events like live matches and or off-field content.

section will also feature links to or official Twitch channels of partner teams like Premier League side Arsenal and Ligue 1 champions Paris Saint-Germain. In addition to two teams, LaLiga champions Real Madrid and Serie A champions Juventus will also have official Twitch channels in near future. Initially, collaborations with teams will focus on production of behind--scenes content. re could be a possibility of broadcasting live youth and first-team friendly matches in near future.

Also Read | Twitch Teenr Donates $20,000 Worth Of Life Savings, Worried Parents Seek Help Online

Twitch's anuncement comes just days after Amazon streamed Premier League matches free on Twitch for first time. e-commerce giant has also secured German rights to a pack of UEFA Champions League matches. likes of NBA, NHL, NWSL, RFL, and UFC are already on Twitch. Last year, platform signed a deal to become official streaming partner for USA Basketball. Ligue 1 side Marseille recently anunced that y will broadcast two friendly matches next season on streaming platform.

Also Read | Dr Disrespect Ban: Twitch Celebrity Streamer Breaks Silence Weeks After Getting Banned

While Twitch Sports might suggest a dedicated emphasis on sports content, athletes have predominantly enjoyed considerable success on platform. Manchester City star Sergio Aguero, who usually streams games on platform, has one of fastest-growing channels on Twitch with a popularity surge in past few months. Back in May, Aguero's channel by moniker 'Slakun10' gained a whopping 857,024 followers on Twitch. Formula One racer Lando rris, NBA star Ben Simmons, NFL's Juju Smith-Schuster are or popular streamers on platform. 

Twitch will be celebrating launch of new section with former MLS star Jimmy Conrad by hosting a live stream session featuring interactive content from NBA, Arsenal Football Club and UFC.

Also Read | Fortnite Champion Series Season 3 Schedule And Twitch Drops Rewards Revealed

(Im Credits: Sergio Ramos, Khabib Nurmagomedov Instagram Handle)