Optus hands over World Cup to SBS for next 48 hours after streaming fail
Optus has been forced to relinquish its World Cup TV rights for 48 hours as it tries to fix ongoing glitches with its live streaming.
The telecommunications group has been heavily criticised, with some customers left unable to stream matches from the tournament in Russia.
The next six pool games will be broadcast on SBS with the boss of the telco saying fixing the problem is its highest priority.
Speaking with Ross Greenwood, Optus CEO Allen Lew says the issue comes down to “very high demand” and “some levels of congestion”.
He tells Ross “we are confident we have a solution” and the 48-hour simulcast is necessary to weed out issues.
“It’s got my focus and the focus of the company. We will resolve the streaming issues, it’s top priority for all of us.
“In order that we do not cause any more inconvenience to Australians and soccers fans, over the next two days we will simulcast on SBS.
“This will give us the time necessary to fine tune and robustly test our video service.”
Listen to the full interview below
Optus and SBS have agreed that SBS can televise all FIFA World Cup games for the next 48 hours, giving all Australians the chance to enjoy the tournament. #WorldCup @TheWorldGame
— SBS Australia (@SBS) June 18, 2018
I have spoken with the Optus CEO, Allen Lew. He assures me he is giving the World Cup streaming problems his personal attention and he believes it will be fixed this evening.
— Malcolm Turnbull (@TurnbullMalcolm) June 18, 2018