Qatar Airways has taken a monumental leap in enhancing the in-flight entertainment experience by introducing a revolutionary live sports streaming service, made possible through a strategic partnership with IMG, a leading global sports media company. This groundbreaking initiative allows travelers to enjoy real-time access to premier live sports channels such as Sport 24 and Sport 24 Extra while soaring at 35,000 feet, all thanks to Starlink’s high-speed satellite internet technology. Passengers can now indulge in their favorite sporting events directly on their personal devices, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops, through a custom web player designed for seamless connectivity.
This launch signifies a significant digital milestone in aviation, positioning Qatar Airways as the first international carrier to seamlessly integrate Sport 24’s live content into its in-flight streaming platform via Starlink connectivity. The ability to stream high-definition content means that sports enthusiasts can now catch every exhilarating moment of their favorite events, from the UEFA Champions League matches to the thrilling Formula 1 races, without worrying about missing out while in transit.
The initiative reflects Qatar Airways’ unwavering commitment to elevating the passenger experience through cutting-edge digital services. According to Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, the CEO of Qatar Airways Group, this partnership with IMG represents a major step forward in redefining the in-flight experience. He emphasized that the integration of Starlink’s high-speed connectivity with live sports streaming is a proud moment for the airline, allowing passengers to stay connected to the sporting moments that matter most to them, no matter where they are in the world. Whether a passenger is a football fan, a tennis lover, or an enthusiast of other global sports, this innovative offering ensures they never miss a second of the action while flying.
In a statement from Adam Kelly, President of IMG, he highlighted that live sports are among the last remaining appointment-to-view events that viewers prefer to watch in real-time. As consumer viewing habits evolve, there is a growing demand for more ways to enjoy live sports onboard. Qatar Airways has stepped up to meet this demand, making it possible for fans traveling anywhere in the world to experience Sport 24 live.
Qatar Airways stands out as the only airline in the MENA region—and one of the select few globally—to offer ultra-fast in-flight broadband speeds that rival those found in homes. This exceptional connectivity is currently available across its Boeing 777 and Airbus A350 aircraft. As of June 2025, the airline has successfully operated over 12,000 flights equipped with Starlink technology, with every Boeing 777-300ER now fully outfitted to provide passengers with seamless high-speed internet access. On these Starlink-enabled flights, travelers can instantly stream premium live sports content by simply scanning a QR code onboard, which links them directly to the Sport 24 web player. This platform, developed by IMG, features the world’s only live sports channels specifically designed for commercial aviation, bringing top-tier sports action right to passengers’ personal devices mid-flight.
This innovative rollout comes at a perfect time, coinciding with a summer filled with major global sports events. Broadcasts available on Sport 24 and Sport 24 Extra include coverage of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025™, UEFA Women’s EURO 2025, Wimbledon, The British Open, major cricket matches, and high-octane Formula 1 races, among others. Curated and produced in IMG’s advanced studios located in London, these broadcasts reached over 10 million airline passengers last year, and through Qatar Airways’ advanced Starlink-enabled aircraft, that audience is set to expand even further.
Qatar Airways’ dedication to the global sports community is evident through its role as the Official Airline Partner for a myriad of premier teams, tournaments, and athletes. The airline’s partnerships span various sports, including football (with entities like UEFA, Paris Saint-Germain, and FC Internazionale Milano), tennis (with icons like Novak Djokovic), and even motorsports, rugby, and cricket. By combining cutting-edge in-flight technology with world-class sports partnerships, Qatar Airways is not only redefining the travel experience but is also ensuring that fans have uninterrupted access to the action they love, even while cruising at high altitudes.
In conclusion, Qatar Airways has set a new standard in air travel by integrating live sports streaming with the convenience of modern technology. As passengers embark on their journeys, they can now look forward to a unique in-flight experience that keeps them connected to the sports world, making every flight not just a means of travel, but a gateway to entertainment and excitement. With the integration of Starlink technology and the exclusive offerings from IMG, the future of in-flight entertainment looks brighter than ever.
