A new mobile network has been launched claiming it is “built exclusively for football fans”, though its sole £16 monthly plan is available to anyone in the UK. For this price, customers of Rocket Mobile will get unlimited data, texts and calls using coverage provided by VodafoneThree, the newly merged network operator.

This means customers will be able to tap into the signal of both the Vodafone and Three networks for nationwide 4G and 5G coverage.

Rocket Mobile is backed by the Global Fan Network, the company whose founder and CEO Robbie Lyle is behind the popular YouTube channel Arsenal Fan TV, also known as AFTV. In a press release, Rocket Mobile said it would give football fans “an alternative to the price rising, money sapping plans that are currently on offer”.

“Rocket Mobile gives fans the connectivity of the big operators, without the hassle or exaggerated fees,” it said.”

£16 for an unlimited 5G SIM is very competitive in the UK mobile market, especially given the plan is on a month-to-month rolling contract basis. An unlimited monthly rolling data SIM from established rival Giffgaff is £35, £19 more.

The mobile plan, which is only available as an eSIM with compatible smartphone handsets, also includes a generous 20GB of EU roaming data per month (Giffgaff offers only 5GB as standard), which Rocket Mobile says is for customers’ “European away days, or their long weekends in Ibiza”, and there is even 1GB of free global roaming data for those who travel further afield.

“Football fans never get an easy ride – everyone knows the costs of tickets, merch, and just supporting the teams they love,” said Brett Lotriet Best of Rocket Mobile.

“It’s time for a fan revolution in mobile. Rocket Mobile is here to give fans everything they need at a price they can actually afford. For £16 a month, they get all their data, calls, and texts, with a fair price that’s locked in – a small way to support the community that is the lifeblood of the game.”

The firm said it would give customers access to “football content and perks” via GFN including exclusive content and access to live events.

“Rocket Mobile isn’t just another mobile provider,” Best said. “It’s a platform for fans to connect, create, and celebrate the sport they love, without being priced out of the game.”

Alongside AFTV, GFN’s other popular channels include DR Sports, United View and The Kop TV.