In a first for the platform, Spanish internet personality and esports commentator, Ibai Llanos, will be streaming the upcoming Copa del Rey knockout competition final on his YouTube channel. This move marks another significant step in Llanos' journey into sports broadcasting.
Llanos is no stranger to the digital world with over 15.9 million subscribers on his primary YouTube channel. He will host not only the game but also pre- and post-match analysis alongside other content creators. This innovative approach to sports broadcasting combines traditional linear coverage from national network La 1 and RTVE Player service with an interactive online experience.
The final match of Spain's premier knockout competition is set to take place tomorrow (April 18), featuring Atletico Madrid against Real Sociedad at Seville's Estadio La Cartuja, which has a capacity of 70,000 spectators.
Familiar territory for Real Sociedad
Real Sociedad has previous experience with this new form of broadcasting as they were involved in the first-ever live soccer match streamed by a major European league on Twitch. The derby against Athletic Club in April 2021 was streamed across multiple channels including Gol, LaLiga, and Llanos', attracting over half a million views. Now history repeats itself as Llanos becomes the first to stream a Copa del Rey match on YouTube.
This groundbreaking agreement was brokered by Peak Sport Media agency - international rights sales partner for Copa del Rey matches - established in 2023 as a joint venture between advisory firm Ocho Sport and LaLiga. Live television rights to the Copa del Rey are held by Spanish public-service broadcaster RTVE which retained rights last October for three years (2025-27).
Shamik Savjani, Peak strategy director, said:
“The Copa del Rey is a competition with a rich history, and these kinds of initiatives help bring it closer to new fans in an innovative and authentic way.”
Beyond being a popular streamer, Llanos has a strong presence in Spanish soccer culture. He is the president of a Kings League seven-a-side soccer team and one of the main faces of the digital-focused league in Spain.
Seville, the capital of Spain's Andalusia region, will host the Copa del Rey final every year through 2028. This long-term commitment further solidifies Seville's position as an important hub for Spanish football. This innovative approach to sports broadcasting by Ibai Llanos marks an exciting new chapter in how fans engage with live sports events. It also highlights how traditional and digital media can work together to enhance viewer experience.
