Movistar plus+ axes nine sports channels – a subscriber blow
Movistar Plus+ is delivering a seismic shift to its sports lineup, abruptly pulling Disney Channel and shedding nine further channels, leaving many customers reeling.
A sudden cull: subscribers face a shifting grid
The operator’s decision, driven by a need to clear space for upcoming broadcasts, including the FIFA World Cup 2026 and the Champions League, marks a significant alteration to the platform. The move, which sees the return of previously departed channels like Liga de Campeones, isn’t sitting well with a base accustomed to predictable schedules. It’s a stark reminder that in the streaming wars, content is a constantly fluid commodity.
Eight channels gone, temporarily returned
Specifically, eight Champions League channels – from 6 to 13 – are slated for a temporary hiatus, promising a return in the 2026/27 season. This strategic withdrawal, coupled with the permanent disappearance of Golf 2, underscores a calculated risk – a gamble that prioritizing major sporting events will ultimately justify the channel removals. But the optics aren’t good. Users, particularly those subscribed to the ‘Deportes Total’ package, are facing a noticeably diminished experience.
Fiber reboot, price wars intensify
While the sports shake-up dominates headlines, Movistar Plus+ is simultaneously rolling out discounted 20 euro fiber packages, mirroring strategies employed by Vodafone and Orange – a predictable counter-move in a fiercely competitive market. The ongoing price wars, fueled by DIGI’s aggressive tactics, continue to erode margins. It's a testament to the relentless pressure across the entire telecommunications landscape.
Dazn partnership fuels world cup coverage
However, there’s a glimmer of hope. Movistar Plus+ is partnering with DAZN to broadcast the entirety of the FIFA World Cup 2026, offering 104 matches and coverage across 48 countries – including exclusive access to Spanish national team games. The operator is leveraging this agreement to mitigate the impact of channel removals, though seven Champions League channels – potentially two featuring HDR – remain under scrutiny for future pruning. The investment demonstrates a calculated effort to retain high-value subscribers.
Golf 2’s unexpected exit
The abrupt removal of Golf 2, a channel that ran for three years, has caught many users entirely off guard. Initially, Movistar had intended to focus heavily on LaLiga football, but pivoted to occupy the space left vacant by Toros TV. This recent change of heart signals a clear strategic shift, effectively relegating Golf 2 to the digital graveyard. The dial 68 is now completely empty.
A new era of sports streaming
Movistar Plus+ is clearly doubling down on a more streamlined, event-driven approach to its sports offerings. Alongside the impending arrival of two new channels dedicated to basketball, ‘Baloncesto por M+’, the operator is signaling a fundamental restructuring of its sporting content strategy. For 9.99€, subscribers can access a curated bundle of football, series, and film – a tempting proposition, even with the channel losses. It's a high-stakes game, and the subscriber base is watching closely.
Final thought: a subscriber cost
Ultimately, this isn’t a victory for Movistar Plus+ subscribers. It’s a calculated, and arguably shortsighted, move to accommodate a blockbuster sporting calendar. The cost? A significantly diminished viewing experience and a growing sense of uncertainty about the value of their investment.