CONMEBOL signs up Irdeto for piracy protection

South American football’s governing body CONMEBOL has announced a partnership with digital platform security firm Irdeto. 

The organisation said that the deal will see Irdeto “protect its brand and combat piracy of live football matches.” The body licences tournaments such as the CONMEBOL Libertadores, CONMEBOL Sudamericana, CONMEBOL Copa América and CONMEBOL Recopa to global broadcasters.

Specifically, Irdeto will monitor match broadcasts in over 180 countries, with an aim to “address the challenge of online redistribution piracy.” The vendor will provide support through its Irdeto 360 Security suite, and in particular the Irdeto Online Piracy Detection and Cyber Services product.

Juan Emilio Roa, commercial director for CONMEBOL said: “South American football attracts a global audience who expect great games and a premium experience, and the protection of the live signal quality of our matches and our brand, is crucial to this.

“Irdeto’s experience in the protection of live sports content and its ability to provide sophisticated online piracy detection technology combined with proactive services aimed at protecting our brand and taking down illegal content, makes it the perfect partner as the global interest in South American football continues to increase.”

Bengt Jonsson, senior vice president of sales and services at Irdeto said: “As one of FIFA’s six continental confederations, responsible for the organisation and governance of South American football’s major international tournaments, both the CONMEBOL brand and live football content are extremely valuable and must be protected.

“The confederation understands the importance of combining cutting edge technology with proactive services to ensure that illegal content streams are taken down quickly so substantial license investments are not devalued and consumers are not exposed to the dangers that come from illegal content sources and illegitimate brand infringements.”