FOX Footy audiences up during COVID-19

AFL audiences are up on Foxtel’s group platforms, despite (or possibly because of) the curve ball thrown by COVID-19.

Live matches are up 34% so far this season across the combined Foxtel / Foxtel Now / Foxtel Go and Kayo platforms.

Compared to the first 12 rounds of the 2019 season average audiences for Foxtel are up 10%, and Foxtel Now, Foxtel GO and Kayo audiences are collectively up over 200%.

A Port Adelaide v Richmond match in Round 11 drew 273,000 linear viewers, but grew by another 141,000 across Foxtel Now / Foxtel Go and Kayo.

Foxtel Sports Executive Director Steve Crawley said: “What a ripper result for the game. Our team at FOX Footy have been delighted to bring a unique season to more viewers than ever before, and the AFL could not have been a better partner during these times.

“We are incredibly excited about the next instalment of the Footy Frenzy which begins with a Thursday-night doubleheader on 27 August featuring the Hawks and Bombers at Adelaide Oval, followed by the Tigers and Eagles in a blockbuster at Metricon Stadium.”

Foxtel also notes audiences for live FOX Footy-produced matches are up 44% so far this season and
the shorter match durations and the AFL’s scheduling with fewer match overlaps and more standalone prime time matches have also been winners with viewers.