FC Barcelona in the US.

Famed La Liga de Fútbol clubs, FC Barcelona and known as Barça TV, will start begin to be delivered in first quarter of 2008 cross-platform of video distribution channels including syndicated TV, video on demand, broadband and mobile phone.

The announcement was made by Joe Schramm, president of Schramm Sports & Entertainment, Inc, who recently acquired these rights through IMG.

Schramm said, ”This is a unique opportunity since most sports properties have restrictions on distribution, especially with internet television and wireless telephony rights. Because we have a full complement of rights, we are able to distribute to cable TV companies, broadcasters, station owner groups, telephony companies and the internet television industry.” Schramm added, “Now fans can catch one of the most popular world-class teams, anytime and anywhere in the US. Plus, sponsors receive greater value for their investment because they are incorporated into each of the televised distribution channels.”

According to Schramm “This is one of those rare opportunities advertisers currently have with a sports sponsorship that spans multiple video platforms”.

Distribution and sponsorships are to be handled through a new company formed to initially manage this television property as well as mine additional rights-investment opportunities. Schramm along with his business partner, Rafael Eli has formed Global Sports Partners to drive this new enterprise. According to Schramm “we needed to form a separate entity since this media enterprise is a diversion from our company‚s traditional role in marketing to segmented audiences.”

The property will be promoted to viewers under its own brand name Barça TV.

The programming includes a delayed telecast of the most recent match, plus the latest highlights, timely interviews and more. Each week, up to 6 hours of new or “fresh” content will be introduced via on demand on cable TV and through internet television. Programming will also be repurposed for distribution as short-form content on wireless mobile and as a one-hour weekly special through traditional syndication.

The exclusive arrangement with each team is for three seasons including the current season (in-progress) for 2007-08, 2008-09, and 2009-10.