President Vladimir Putin of Russia has allowed for the country to launch their version of ESPN called Match TV. The station aims to create a dedicated federal sports following with the new network as well as to promote a healthy well being among its citizens.
Match TV faces one problem: Russians do not watch their domestic leagues since most of the best soccer and hockey athletes go to other countries for high-paying offers. Russia also lacks the sports hype that America sees with no tailgating or college sports traditions.
Match TV executives think that Russians will respond well to the new network.