London - Starting in August, how Singapore football fans watch the English Premier League will have global repercussions. The league's first direct-to-consumer streaming service, Premier League+, debuts there for the 2026-27 season.
The move signals a major shift. The EPL currently generates more revenue from overseas rights (£2.1 billion per season) than domestic ones (£1.7 billion), but the market is cooling.
Singapore was chosen for its affluent, tech-savvy population, deep connection to English football, and robust anti-piracy framework. It’s an ideal test bed.
Premier League+ pricing was announced May 19. Options include a 24-hour pass (S$16), a monthly pass (S$44), and an annual pass (S$399) for all 380 games. The service will integrate with existing StarHub subscriptions.
If successful, the league may expand the model globally. However, taking it to markets like the UK risks alienating key broadcast partners like Sky Sports who rely on live football.
One thing is certain: the sporting world will be watching how Singapore watches English football next season.