STIRR’s streaming interface. (Courtesy of Stadium)
Sinclair Broadcast Group has launched STIRR, a free, ad-supported over-the-top streaming platform that includes several sports offerings.
Among existing national sports networks, STIRR includes Stadium, The T (powered by Tennis Channel), and the World Poker Tour. Sinclair is also producing a new streaming channel, STIRR Sports.
“We are incredibly excited to distribute Stadium via STIRR’s impressive platform,” said Stadium CEO Jason Coyle in a statement. “We believe that the combination of Stadium’s national sports programming lineup along with localized Sinclair station coverage will create a compelling sports experience for an important audience segment.”
Sinclair’s broadcast portfolio includes 191 television stations in 89 markets. STIRR will include new programming in some local markets. In all, STIRR hosts 20 national networks with plans to reach 50 by the end of the year.
“We are entering a new era of broadcast television and our number one priority at Sinclair is to help advance the industry and increase access to broadcast content in the midst of a digital age,” said Sinclair CEO Christopher Ripley in a statement. “With the launch of STIRR, we intend to offer audiences an easy, convenient and free way to watch live local and national channels, as well access a deep selection of on-demand programming.”
SportTechie Takeaway
STIRR doesn’t have the comprehensive offerings that will entice any new cord-cutters or streaming users to switch over. But the new platform is free and hosts a few sports networks in one place. That centralization of content could attract some viewers for its convenience.
