Soccer Shocker: Netflix Picks Up Streaming Rights to FIFA Women’s World Cup

Soccer Shocker: Netflix Picks Up Streaming Rights to FIFA Women’s World Cup

As a long-time gaming enthusiast with a soft spot for sports and an even softer spot for women empowerment, I can’t help but feel a surge of excitement at the news that Netflix will be streaming the 2027 and 2031 editions of the FIFA Women’s World Cup. Growing up, I was always the kid who preferred sports video games over traditional ones, and watching the evolution of women’s sports has been an inspiring journey for me.

Netflix significantly boosts its sports portfolio by securing the exclusive U.S. streaming rights for the 2027 and 2031 editions of the FIFA Women’s World Cup, marking a notable expansion in their sport-related content offerings.

For the very first time, the tournament will stream exclusively on a streaming platform, with Netflix acquiring rights in multiple languages across the U.S., including Puerto Rico. The organization has announced that they will provide both English and Spanish language broadcasts. Additionally, they plan to create supplementary programming such as pre-match analysis shows and studio discussions to enhance the live matches.

Bela Bajaria, Netflix’s chief content officer, noted that the enthusiasm for the FIFA Women’s World Cup has significantly expanded – from the electrifying vibe in France back in 2019 to the remarkable vitality witnessed throughout Australia and New Zealand last year,” she said. “Streaming this renowned tournament on Netflix is more than just broadcasting matches; it’s about honoring the athletes, embracing the sports culture, and acknowledging the excitement fueling the global surge of women’s sports.

The large streaming platform plans to create documentaries related to the tournaments as well. It’s been scheduled for Brazil to host the event in 2027, while the location for the 2031 tournament is yet to be decided.

Gianni Infantino, FIFA President, declared that this moment is significant for sports media rights. He went on to say that Netflix, as a prestigious brand and now a long-term partner of FIFA, has demonstrated an impressive level of dedication towards expanding women’s football. This partnership indicates the genuine worth of the FIFA Women’s World Cup and the global women’s game. Today marks a truly groundbreaking day in broadcasting history and for women’s football, as FIFA and Netflix are now partners.

The deal is a big one for both Netflix, for FIFA, and for the larger sports world.

Obtaining this property adds another significant sports event to Netflix’s roster, following their agreement with the NFL for Christmas Day games and unique events like the Jake Paul-Mike Tyson fight. It also provides them with a foundation in the rapidly expanding women’s sports market, which has been experiencing exponential growth, particularly due to basketball and soccer.

Netflix can capitalize on its sports documentary knowledge by utilizing it during the events, thanks to their unique level of access.

FIFA is now collaborating with another global partner who boasts a wide reach and popular appeal. Previously, the U.S. rights were divided between Fox Sports and Telemundo; Fox had the English rights while Telemundo managed the Spanish ones. However, it’s worth noting that Fox does not stream its matches, which can potentially limit accessibility in certain situations.

In simpler terms, this deal highlights Netflix’s commitment to sports, although they are being cautious by focusing on specific events instead of long-term season rights contracts.

Read More

Sorry. No data so far.

2024-12-20 17:26