Apple logo on a soccer pitch
Apple’s next addition to its sports coverage could involve more soccer, with Apple said to be close to signing a billion-dollar deal for a new tournament.
Even so, this would be just a quarter of the $4 billion FIFA apparently initially estimated for the rights. It is also unclear if the rights would be exclusive to Apple and its subscribers, or if there will be some form of free-to-air element.
The tournament will feature teams from around the globe, playing over the course of a month in a competition similar in structure to the World Cup. Successful teams from around the world are set to take part, including 12 from Europe.
However, the tournament has struggled to get underway so far, thanks to allegedly poor planning and delays. Sponsors have also apparently been reluctant to confirm they will pay the $150 million for sponsorship packages for the sporting event.
