LAUSANNE: From its high-octane innovative content during the Youth Olympic Games Buenos Aires 2018 to creating localised content ahead of Tokyo 2020, the third year of the Olympic Channel proved to be its best year yet with new and exciting opportunities ahead.
The Olympic Channel celebrates its three-year anniversary with more than 19,000 videos representing all Olympic sport disciplines and 206 countries, 65 original series, partnerships with 91 International sport Federations and multisport organisers, availability in 11 languages and strategic distribution partnerships in 160 territories leading to more personalised experiences for fans around the world.
Live event coverage of Buenos Aires 2018, localisation efforts in the Japanese market and compelling original programming and digital content contributed to a 330% increase in organic traffic to the platform from the previous year. Average watch time on the platform is 8:14 minutes per video watched.
On social media, the Olympic Channel community has grown to more than 9 million who have contributed to more than 2.45 billion videos views with 78% of those engaging with content on social media under the age of 35.
Commenting on the efforts to make the Olympic Channel relevant in all parts of the world, general manager Mark Parkman said: “Creating more localised content in order to provide fans with a deeper and more immersive experience is a key area of growth for us. We have evolved from a singular, global video platform in one language and grown to 11 languages, with Hindi coming soon, with additional features and distribution on multiple platforms which enhance the overall viewer experience. In certain markets, we are creating relevant content that serves the local audience to ensure they are engaging with content that they are most interested in. In addition, our distribution partnerships provide a complementary Olympic Channel-branded experience in 160 territories and we are excited to be launching soon in China and ahead of the Beijing Winter Games.”
To achieve its primary objectives to reach younger generations through content that strengthens their connection to the Olympic Movement, the Olympic Channel leverages a multi-platform distribution strategy that includes the web, mobile applications, social media platforms, connected TV devices and strategic partnerships with IOC rights holding broadcasters and stakeholders.
The global media destination launched following the Closing Ceremony of the Olympic Games Rio 2016 in support of the IOC’s goal, set out in Olympic Agenda 2020. Offering award-winning original programming, news, live sports events, and social media and interactive content, the Olympic Channel has found new ways to engage younger generations, fans and new audiences with the Olympic Movement while providing additional exposure for sports and athletes 24/7/365.
