Netflix Acquires Exclusive Rights to Stream FIFA Women’s World Cup
Streaming Giant Expands Live Sports Content
Netflix has announced that it will stream the FIFA Women’s World Cup for the first time, further expanding its library of live sports content. The agreement grants Netflix the exclusive U.S. rights to stream the 2027 and 2031 tournaments in all languages.
Dual Telecast and Documentary Programming
The company plans to offer a dual telecast in English and Spanish, featuring studio shows and top-tier talent. Additionally, Netflix will produce documentary programming highlighting the top players. The 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup will take place in Brazil from June 24 to July 25, with 32 teams competing in 12 cities. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Celebrating the Rise of Women’s Sports
Netflix Chief Content Officer Bela Bajaria attributed the growing global popularity of women’s soccer, citing the success of the recent livestreamed boxing match between Amanda Serrano and Katie Taylor, which drew an average of 74 million live viewers. Bajaria stated, "Bringing this iconic tournament to Netflix is not just about streaming matches – it’s about celebrating the players, the culture, and the passion driving the global rise of women’s sports."
Netflix’s Live Streaming Ambitions
The Serrano-Taylor fight was part of a larger event featuring YouTube star-turned-professional boxer Jake Paul, who beat former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson. The event averaged 108 million live viewers, with some viewers reporting buffering issues. Netflix has been delving into live events, hosting programs such as a Chris Rock comedy special, a hot dog eating competition, a Tom Brady comedy roast, the Screen Actors Guild Awards, and a tennis exhibition match. Next week, the company will stream two NFL Christmas Day games for the first time.
Growing Interest in Live Sports
Live sports have become increasingly attractive to streaming services, drawing large audiences and passionate fans. Organizers behind live sporting events have also been interested in working with streamers to reach global audiences and younger viewers. Apple entered into a 10-year deal with Major League Soccer, reportedly worth around $2.5 billion, to stream exclusive matches.
FIFA President’s Comments
FIFA President Gianni Infantino praised the Netflix deal, calling it a "landmark moment for sports media rights." He added, "Netflix will play a key role in bringing the fascination of women’s football to a multimillion audience in the lead-up to both final tournaments, thereby enabling us to further increase their appeal."
Conclusion
Netflix’s acquisition of exclusive rights to stream the FIFA Women’s World Cup marks a significant milestone in the company’s expansion of live sports content. The agreement not only demonstrates the growing global popularity of women’s soccer but also highlights the increasing interest in live sports streaming.
FAQs
Q: What is the duration of the deal?
A: The deal grants Netflix exclusive U.S. rights to stream the 2027 and 2031 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Q: What is the format of the telecast?
A: Netflix will offer a dual telecast in English and Spanish, featuring studio shows and top-tier talent.
Q: What is the schedule for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup?
A: The tournament will take place in Brazil from June 24 to July 25, with 32 teams competing in 12 cities.
Q: What is the financial term of the deal?
A: The financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.
