Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy has announced a significant partnership with FOX Sports, marking a pivotal moment for both entities. The collaboration includes Portnoy’s participation in the ‘Big Noon Kickoff’ for college football coverage and the launch of a new show on FS1. Portnoy, known for his unfiltered style and controversial past, has reflected on previous attempts to work with major networks like ESPN, where he felt his brand was not welcomed. He praised FOX Sports for fully embracing Barstool’s unique approach, indicating a more aligned partnership.
The partnership is set to include Barstool personalities like Portnoy and Dan ‘Big Cat’ Katz on FOX Sports programming, with Portnoy set to represent his alma mater, Michigan, on the road weekly. A dedicated Barstool studio in Chicago is also part of this expansion. Portnoy expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, calling it a ‘totally new chapter’ with the potential to ‘sky’s the limit’ for both networks.
Portnoy highlighted the contrast with earlier collaborations, such as the ESPN deal, where he felt sidelined. He described the experience with ESPN as one where they were ’embarrassed by it,’ which is now in stark contrast to the current partnership with FOX Sports. Portnoy emphasized that FOX Sports is fully embracing their brand, which he believes is a significant shift from past interactions. This new relationship is seen as a fresh start, allowing both sides to leverage their strengths and resources to create a more engaging experience for fans.
Critics have noted that Portnoy’s style, often polarizing, could impact the partnership’s reception. However, Portnoy remains optimistic, stating that the collaboration is a mutual win and that both parties are excited about the future. With the partnership set to expand into new programming and a physical studio, Barstool Sports aims to solidify its place in the sports media landscape while aligning with a major network’s resources and reach.