FIFA signs Netflix to US broadcast deal for the Women’s World Cup in 2027 and 2031
Associated PressDEC 2024
Netflix Wins FIFA Women's World Cup Broadcast Rights
Above: A Spanish player holds the FIFA Women's World Cup Trophy at Stadium Australia on Aug. 20, 2023, in Sydney. Image copyright: Cameron Spencer/Staff/Getty Images Sport via Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
This deal represents FIFA's most significant partnership with a streaming service for a major tournament. It's a landmark moment for sports media rights and highlights the growing commercial value of women's soccer. This pact will revolutionize how major tournaments are broadcast, providing unprecedented access to millions of viewers through innovative streaming technology.
Narrative B
Technical challenges with recent live sports broadcasts raise concerns about Netflix's ability to deliver reliable streaming for high-demand events, potentially risking viewer experience during crucial matches. Moreover, a departure from the concept of World Cups being free-to-air on public networks undervalues the game and forbids it from reaching as big an audience as possible.