Netflix signs US broadcast deal with FIFA for next two Women’s World Cups

Netflix has secured the US broadcasting rights to the Women’s World Cup in 2027 and 2031, as the streaming giant continues its push into live sports.

The deal is the most significant FIFA has signed with a streaming service for a major tournament. although its value was not publicly revealed.

“Bringing this iconic tournament to Netflix isn’t just about streaming matches,” Netflix chief content officer Bela Bajaria said in a statement.

“It’s also about celebrating the players, the culture and the passion driving the global rise of women’s sport.”

Netflix dipped into live sports last month with coverage of the heavily hyped boxing bout between retired heavyweight legend Mike Tyson and social media personality Jake Paul.

It will also broadcast two NFL matches on Christmas Day in the US as part of a three-year deal announced in May.

World Cups are typically broadcast on free-to-air public networks to reach the largest audiences.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino had publicly criticised public broadcasters, especially in Europe, for undervaluing offers to broadcast the 2023 tournament that was played in Australia and New Zealand.

That tournament was broadcast by Fox in the US.

“This agreement sends a strong message about the real value of the FIFA Women’s World Cup and the global women’s game,” Infantino said.

The World Cup rights mark another major step in Netflix’s push into live programming.

The next Women’s World Cup will be a 32-team, 64-match tournament in 2027, played in Brazil from June 24-July 25.

The 2031 host has not been decided, but the US is likely to bid for a tournament which FIFA is expected to expand to 48 teams.

FIFA will likely use the Netflix deal to drive talks with European broadcasters.

AP