Movistar, the pay-TV and streaming giant owned by Telefónica, has deepened its commitment to rugby in Spain by securing domestic broadcast rights to top-tier competitions organized by the Spanish Rugby Federation (FER).
The three-year agreement, running through the 2027-28 season, ensures Movistar+ will air the men’s División de Honor, the women’s Liga Iberdrola, and the Copa del Rey knockout competition.
Coverage Breakdown
- División de Honor: One first-pick game per matchday, plus the quarter-finals, semi-finals, and final.
- Liga Iberdrola: One marquee game per matchday, plus the semi-final and final.
- Copa del Rey: Coverage of the semi-final and final.
This partnership brings unprecedented visibility to Spanish domestic rugby, positioning it alongside Movistar’s existing premium rugby offering, which already includes France’s Top 14, England’s Premiership Rugby, Super Rugby Pacific, and global showcases such as the Rugby World Cup, Six Nations, Rugby Championship, and Champions Cup.
Driving Growth in Spanish Rugby
FER president Juan Carlos Martín praised the deal, noting that the exposure on Movistar “represents a major step in promoting rugby in our country” and will not only benefit sponsors but also elevate the sport’s presence in Spanish households.
The agreement also arrives at a critical moment for the FER, which has openly expressed its ambition to host the men’s 2035 Rugby World Cup. Building consistent domestic visibility is seen as a key pillar in making that bid more competitive on the global stage.
Strategic Context
This rights package consolidates Movistar as the home of rugby in Spain, offering fans a comprehensive slate of both international and domestic competitions. For rugby itself, it is a landmark opportunity to push beyond its niche status in Spain and align with the federation’s long-term growth agenda.
By pairing grassroots and national competitions with global rugby properties, Movistar is helping to close the gap between local development and international recognition.
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