FIFA’s gamble? Netflix to broadcast Women’s World Cup in 2027 and 2031

FIFA President Gianni Infantino: “The partnership with Netflix is ​​a historic event.” Football economics expert Kieran Maguire cast doubt on the deal

FIFA has signed a deal with Netflix to broadcast the Women’s World Cups in 2027 and 2031. This is the first time a major soccer tournament has been fully acquired by a streaming platform.

“Netflix will be the exclusive and full broadcaster in the United States for two Women’s World Cups,” USA Today reported. The streaming giant will provide “unprecedented access” to every live match, including dual broadcasts in English and Spanish, and comprehensive coverage for fans in Puerto Rico.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership. “The agreement sends a strong message about the true value of the FIFA Women’s World Cup and women’s football worldwide,” he said. “The partnership between FIFA and Netflix is ​​a historic event for sports broadcasting and for women’s football.”

USA national team | Justin Setterfield / Staff

Netflix’s chief content officer, Bella Bejarra, stressed the company’s commitment to promoting women’s sports. “Bringing the iconic tournament to Netflix is ​​not just about streaming games, it’s also a celebration of the players, the culture and the passion that drives the global rise of women’s sports,” Bejarra said, as reported by ABC News.

The agreement includes the production of exclusive docuseries ahead of the two Women’s World Cups. These series will spotlight leading players, their journeys, and the global growth of women’s football.

The 2027 Women’s World Cup is scheduled to be held in Brazil from June 24 to July 25, with 32 teams and 64 matches. The host country for the 2031 edition has not yet been decided.

Historically, international women’s soccer competitions have struggled to attract significant broadcast bids. FIFA is expected to use the Netflix deal to bolster negotiations with European broadcasters.

Soccer economics expert Kieran Maguire described the Netflix deal as “somewhat of a gamble” for FIFA and called it “sword-waving” by Gianni Infantino, according to ABC News.