Netflix Signs Broadcast Deal for Women’s World Cup in the United States

Netflix is making a big move into live sports by securing the U.S. broadcasting rights for the Women’s World Cup in 2027 and 2031. This deal with FIFA is a significant step for the streaming service, marking its entry into major tournament broadcasting.

FIFA, the governing body of soccer, typically partners with free-to-air public networks for World Cup broadcasts to reach large audiences. The last women’s World Cup in 2023 earned FIFA less than 10% of what the men’s 2022 World Cup did. This move to Netflix represents a shift towards streaming platforms for sports broadcasting.

Netflix’s chief content officer, Bela Bajaria, expressed excitement about bringing this iconic tournament to the service. It’s not just about streaming matches but also celebrating the players, culture, and passion driving the global rise of women’s sports.

In addition to the Women’s World Cup, Netflix has recently ventured into live sports with other events like a highly-watched boxing match between Mike Tyson and Jake Paul. This streaming service will also air two NFL games on Christmas Day as part of a broader push into live programming.

While traditional media has been the primary player in sports broadcasting, Netflix’s move is a strong indication of its growing influence. The company’s approach includes offering an ad-supported version of its service, with revenue from ads becoming an essential part of its business strategy.

Netflix’s increasing budget for programming this year includes allocating a significant portion to sports and live events. This investment has positioned Netflix as a competitor in acquiring major sports rights, challenging traditional media in the process.

FIFA’s partnership with Netflix is expected to impact negotiations with European broadcasters, potentially leading to tough discussions. Overall, this deal represents a significant development in the intersection of streaming platforms and sports broadcasting.