NEW YORK: Facebook has unveiled content partnerships with MotoGP and Major League Soccer that will see exclusive content from the world’s fastest motorcycle racing championship and highlights of all MLS matches made available globally on Facebook Watch.
MotoGP videos will be between three and seven minutes in length, giving fans of the sport another way to enjoy some incredible – and exclusive – content, racing championship promoter Dorna Sports announced Friday.
As part of the baseball partnership, announced Wednesday, MLS will host a weekly Watch Party on Facebook and create official Facebook Groups for select teams across the league, allowing fans globally to connect in real time.
The first videos from this new wealth of content will be available soon as the MotoGP World Championship gets in gear this weekend at Losail International Circuit in Qatar, and will be produced by MotoGP with riders and teams from across all four classes. The key focus is getting fans behind-the-scenes like never before, as well as taking them closer to the action with videos dedicated to what’s happening on track and off.
“Facebook’s innovative Watch Party experience is the perfect place for Major League Soccer fans around the world to exchange views and share their passion for our clubs and players,” said MLS SVP, Media Chris Schlosser in a statement. “We’re proud to collaborate with Facebook to deliver exciting game recaps and engage globally with MLS fans.”
No acquisition value for either of the content deals have been given.
Fans can stay up to date with the latest highlights by following the MLS Facebook Page at facebook.com/MLS. Between league, team and player accounts on the platform, the MLS Facebook community exceeds over 30 million people. The agreement will also bring archival clips, featuring top moments in MLS history, and player-centric highlights to Facebook Watch.
“Major League Soccer is one of the fastest growing leagues in the U.S., and we’re excited to help it continue to reach new fans through this partnership,” said Rob Shaw, Facebook director of League and Media Sports Partnerships. “This content will bring people together to celebrate wins, commiserate over losses and share the top plays with their friends, making it a fantastic fit for Facebook Watch.”
MLS content on Facebook Watch will also be accessible on mobile apps across Apple and Android, on desktop, laptop and on a variety of TV apps.
MotoGP has an impressive and ever-growing presence across social media, with Facebook a key platform for the sport’s global fanbase. Last season MotoGP gained 355,000 new fans on Facebook, taking the total to over 13 million, and the Championship boasts almost 9 million Instagram followers – making it the biggest motorsport content proposition on Facebook-owned platforms. In addition, 2019 saw Facebook video views increase by nearly 50% to over a billion and engagement go up by nearly seven percent compared to the previous year.
The goal of MotoGP’s partnership with Facebook Watch is to maintain and increase those numbers once again, rewarding fans for their incredible commitment by producing some truly innovative and thrilling content as Facebook Watch will be a new, meaningful way for fans to enjoy and engage with MotoGP™️ in the digital sphere.
Riders and teams will also be able to crosspost – increasing reach throughout the paddock and fanbase – and some clips will be also available on Instagram, ensuring the biggest audience for this innovative new wealth of digital content as MotoGP once again proves a world leader in motorsport social media.
