ACE Seizes Streameast in Coordinated Global Takedown

In a joint operation with Egyptian authorities on Sunday, the Alliance for Creativity and Entertainment (ACE) dismantled Streameast, the world’s largest illegal live sports streaming network, halting service across 80 domains and arresting two suspected operators.

Closure underscores piracy threat amid rising subscription costs ACE’s action against Streameast follows a yearlong probe into the platform’s 1.6 billion annual visits, aiming to protect rights holders from extensive digital piracy and direct fans toward legal viewing options.

Raid and arrests

Authorities executed search warrants on Streameast’s Cairo-area offices, confiscating laptops, smartphones, cash, credit cards and crypto wallets.
Two suspects were detained on copyright infringement charges in El-Sheikh Zaid, Giza Governorate, pending further investigation.

Financial seizure and laundering probe

Investigators uncovered a UAE-based shell company allegedly used to launder over £4.9 million (≈ US $6.2 million) in ad revenue since 2010, plus £150,000 (≈ US $200,000) in cryptocurrency.
Evidence suggests illicit funds may have financed real estate purchases in Egypt.

Industry impact and ongoing challenges

ACE chairman Charles Rivkin hailed the takedown as “a significant victory” for sports leagues and broadcasters worldwide, noting that fans will now be funneled toward ACE’s “Watch Legally” portal. However, analysts warn that “copycat” streaming sites are already emerging, signaling an enduring “whack-a-mole” battle against live sports piracy.

What’s next for fans and rights holders

Redirected traffic: All Streameast domains now point to ACE’s official page listing authorized streaming services.
Continued enforcement: ACE vows to monitor and target new illicit platforms globally.
Fan guidance: Rights holders urge consumers to explore bundled streaming packages and flexible pay-per-view options to reduce pirated content demand.