Universal Music Group tunes in to FIFA podcast series

FIFA has launched FIFA Sound, a new entertainment strategy to create ‘meaningful connections’ between football supporters, music enthusiasts, players and artists.

As part of the initiative, the football governing body has unveiled an eight-episode podcast series called ‘PlayOn’ in conjunction with Universal Music Group for Brands.

In each episode, players will be joined by a musician of their choice to discuss how football and music intertwine within their lives. Sky Sports presenter Jaydee Dyer will co-host the first episode alongside English singer and songwriter Liam Payne.

“We’re delighted to be able to launch this collaboration between FIFA and Universal Music Group, which brings together two of the world’s biggest and most influential passion points – football and music – to create a series of unique fan experiences,” said Olivier Robert-Murphy, Executive Vice President of Universal Music Group for Brands.

“Starting with the launch of the PlayOn Podcast series, these initiatives will showcase the symbiosis and shared bonds between the world’s best footballers and musicians alongside the fans that idolise them globally.”

The first episode will be released on 13 January across Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts and Amazon Music platforms. New episodes will come out every Wednesday, with the songs chosen by players compiled on a Spotify playlist.

Jean-François Pathy, FIFA’s Director of Marketing, added: “FIFA’s vision is to make football truly global, accessible and inclusive. The crossover between football and music underscores this wider cultural relevance. Both are universal languages and have the power to create unrivalled emotions. It’s a natural fit to bring them together.

“It’s been fantastic to see the enthusiasm around the launch of this strategy, and we are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead to connect people through inspiring human stories.”

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