YouTube is making a significant move in the football broadcasting landscape by introducing live coverage of the Copa del Rey final. In a partnership with renowned streamer Ibai Llanos, YouTube will stream the match exclusively on his channel. This event marks a historic milestone in Spanish football broadcasting.
YouTube Challenges Movistar Plus+ and TDT with Exclusive Football Rights
The Copa del Rey final between Atlético de Madrid and Real Sociedad is scheduled for Saturday, April 18, at 21:00. Fans can tune in to watch the match on various platforms. Traditional broadcasters like TDT will air the match live on La1, RTVE’s main channel. Movistar Plus+ will also offer exclusive coverage.
Viewing Options for the Final
This year, viewers have multiple options to catch the match:
- TDT: Live broadcast on La1, as well as on the RTVE website and the RTVE Play app.
- Movistar Plus+: Available on the Movistar Plus+ channel (dial 7) and LaLiga on M+ (dial 54) for subscribers.
- Orange TV: Movistar Plus+ content will also be accessible to Orange TV customers through an agreement with Telefónica.
Ibai Llanos’ Historic Broadcast
This year’s standout feature is Ibai Llanos, who will be the first digital content creator to stream a major Spanish football final on YouTube. Viewers can join him for pre-match coverage starting at 20:00. Miguel Ángel Román will provide commentary alongside Darío Eme Hache and Ubietoo, with Víctor Navarro reporting live from the stadium.
YouTube’s Commitment to Sports Accessibility
This collaboration highlights YouTube’s mission to democratize access to premium sports events. Francesca Mortari, YouTube’s Director for Spain, Italy, and Portugal, emphasized the significance of this partnership, stating it redefines entertainment and sports on digital platforms. This initiative aims to reach millions with the live broadcast of the Copa del Rey final.
In conjunction with this development, YouTube recently secured a deal with FIFA to become a “preferred platform” for the 2026 World Cup. This partnership allows users to enjoy extensive content, including complete matches, expanding YouTube’s role in sports broadcasting.
As traditional television faces fierce competition from streaming services, YouTube’s bold step to air a major football event signals a shift in how audiences can access live sports. With the rise of digital content platforms, the landscape of sports broadcasting continues to evolve.
