Disney, Fox, and Warner Bros. Discovery have unveiled the name for their highly anticipated sports streaming venture: Venu Sports. Set to launch in the fall of 2024, this joint endeavor aims to offer sports enthusiasts a comprehensive collection of live sports all in one place, appealing particularly to those outside the traditional pay TV ecosystem.
Pete Distad, the CEO of Venu Sports and former Apple executive, expressed his excitement, stating, “We are thrilled to introduce Venu Sports, a brand that epitomizes the spirit of a new streaming destination for sports fans. Our goal is to deliver a top-notch product built with cutting-edge technology for sports enthusiasts seeking one-stop access to live games.”
The new platform, announced in February 2024, aims to reach a broader audience by combining ESPN+, Disney’s linear TV networks (ABC, ESPN, etc.), Fox networks (Fox, FS1, FS2, etc.), and Warner Bros. Discovery networks (TNT, TBS, and truTV). The exact pricing and launch date are still under wraps, but fans are encouraged to keep an eye on updates as regulatory approvals are finalized.
Interestingly, the name “Venu” draws inspiration from physical sports venues where fans gather to witness live action – stadiums, arenas, and speedways, among others. Developed in partnership with global design firm R/GA, the brand identity resonates with being the ultimate hub for live sports entertainment.
The venture’s launch isn’t without challenges. The Justice Department is reviewing it for potential antitrust implications, and several entities, including Fubo, are raising concerns about its impact on competition and consumer pricing. Despite these hurdles, the new website at venu.com is up and running, providing a glimpse into the future of this promising sports streaming service.
As Venu prepares to redefine how we experience live sports, we invite you to share your thoughts in the comments below. How excited are you for this new platform? What sports are you looking forward to streaming on Venu? Let’s get the conversation started!