New York – News Corp announced that it has secured exclusive mobile and internet clip rights for England’s Barclays Premier League and several additional major leagues in Japan, Vietnam and Indonesia, to commence with the 2013 season later in August. In addition, mobile and internet rights have been secured in those territories for Bundesliga (Germany), Ligue 1 (France), Serie A (Italy), FA Cup (England), Championship (England), Capital One Cup (England), Brazilian Championship, and Major League Soccer – totalling more than 1,600 regular season, playoff and championship matches.

“European football is growing exponentially in popularity in Asia, particularly among the younger generation, whose passion for the game is complemented by a rapidly increasing adoption of smartphones,” said Robert Thomson, Chief Executive of News Corp. “We will, exclusively, have every goal from every game in the Premier League and action from the German, French and Italian leagues for audiences in Indonesia, Vietnam and Japan. Given that globalisation and digitisation are the two most profound and powerful trends of our era, digital delivery of European football in Asia is the sweetest of sweet spots.”

Premier League Chief Executive Richard Scudamore added: “We are extremely pleased that News Corp has chosen to invest in our mobile and internet clip rights in Japan, Vietnam and Indonesia. Their expertise in multi-platform news and sport coverage means that fans in all three territories can look forward to comprehensive Barclays Premier League clips being available on their smartphones, tablets and other devices.”

News Corp holds the exclusive English Premier League mobile and internet rights in Japan, Indonesia and Vietnam for three years, through to the 2015-16 season. The company has a two-year agreement for the additional leagues.