FIFA teams up with Netflix to broadcast Women's World Cups in 2027 and 2031

In a landmark agreement between FIFA and Netflix, the streaming service has secured exclusive rights to broadcast the FIFA Women’s World Cup tournaments in 2027 and 2031 within the United States. This deal, announced on December 20, 2024, represents a significant shift in how major sports events will be consumed, marking the first time the Women’s World Cup will be streamed on a service like Netflix. The 2027 tournament is scheduled to take place in Brazil from June 24 to July 25, with the host for the 2031 edition yet to be determined, although the U.S. is expected to bid for this opportunity as well. The decision to award these rights to Netflix rather than traditional broadcasters showcases the increasing value and popularity of women’s sports and the growing influence of streaming platforms in sports media. As highlighted by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, this partnership with Netflix seeks to elevate the visibility and appreciation of women’s soccer globally, sending a strong message about the real value of the Women’s World Cup. The agreement not only encompasses the live streaming of matches but also includes plans for Netflix to produce a series of documentaries focusing on the journeys of top players and the further development of women’s football around the world. This strategy aligns with Netflix's broader ambition to increase its stake in live sports, following its recent forays into broadcasting NFL games and boxing events. With viewership for women's sports on the rise, these World Cup tournaments are anticipated to attract significant audiences, enhancing the commercial prospects for both FIFA and Netflix. The previous 2023 Women’s World Cup already saw substantial viewership, particularly while the U.S. was still active in the tournament. This new agreement is viewed as a high-stakes gamble, but it underscores a vital commitment to promoting gender equity in sports, particularly as FIFA aims to address the pay gap between men’s and women’s tournaments. The success of this venture could potentially reshape how sporting events are marketed and consumed in the future, potentially leading to more lucrative agreements for women’s sports. Ultimately, the streaming of these tournaments signifies a new era in sports broadcasting, one that recognizes and promotes the increasing demand for women’s sporting events.