Thailand's free-to-air (FTA) channel, PPTV, has secured an exclusive rights agreement to broadcast matches from the German soccer’s top-tier Bundesliga for the 2025-26 season. This deal extends a decade-long partnership between PPTV and Bundesliga, which has kept the league available on FTA since 2015.
The agreement was reached between Bangkok Media and Broadcasting Corporation, owners of PPTV, and Bundesliga International - the global commercial rights division of the league. As part of this deal, two Bundesliga matches per matchday will be aired on the PPTV HD36 channel along with highlights and magazine shows. Overall, a total of 68 matches will be broadcast during the season.
Growing interest in German football among Thai audience
Pornchai Poonlamlert, acting president of PPTV noted that there has been a steady rise in viewership over recent years with growing interest in German football among Thai audiences. He attributed this growth to factors such as "the fast-paced playing style" of Bundesliga games; rising Asian stars; and an enthusiastic fan culture that makes it one of television's most engaging leagues.
Peer Naubert, Chief marketing officer of Bundesliga International, said:
“The Bundesliga has the fastest growing fanbase in Thailand of all the top European leagues, and our long-term partnership with PPTV has been a key part of our growth strategy. Our combination of a world-class on-field product, combined with industry-leading innovations and broadcaster relations, ensures that the Bundesliga has cemented itself as a core league for the top channels and platforms across south-east Asia.”
In addition to broadcasting games, PPTV plans to host watch parties in Thailand's capital city. They also aim to work alongside DFL league body and Thai government officials to stage 'Bundesliga Dream Thailand'. This initiative provides opportunities for Thai youth teams to train at Germany’s top clubs' academies.
Furthermore, Bayern Munich operates a regional office in Bangkok while Borussia Dortmund runs a soccer academy there – further strengthening ties between Germany's top-tier football clubs and Thailand.
Building global presence
The Bundesliga is actively working to build its global presence, aiming to compete with England’s Premier League and Spain’s LaLiga which have wide international fan bases. In April, Bundesliga International strengthened its foothold in China by signing a joint declaration with mobile streaming service and domestic broadcast partner Migu.
The German top-flight league has also partnered with more than 20 content partners in strategic growth markets such as North America's Minute Media and India's Khel Now. Last December, the league collaborated with OneFootball to launch an international OTT platform in select territories including India, Vietnam, and South Africa.
The renewed partnership between PPTV and Bundesliga not only ensures continued access for Thai fans but also contributes towards developing technical and sporting structures within Thailand. This is a testament to the growing influence of Bundesliga beyond Germany's borders.
