In a significant move for sports broadcasting, Netflix has signed a deal with FIFA to stream the Women’s World Cup in 2027 and 2031. This agreement marks the first full competition that Netflix has acquired, granting the streaming giant exclusive rights for the U.S. market. In addition to the live broadcasts, Netflix plans to produce an exclusive documentary series leading up to the tournaments, aiming to build excitement and engagement around the events [909a42af].
This deal follows Netflix's successful expansion of the audience for Formula One through its documentary series 'Drive to Survive', which has been credited with increasing interest in the sport, particularly among younger viewers. The streaming service's foray into sports broadcasting is seen as a strategic effort to diversify its content offerings and attract a broader audience [909a42af].
The Women’s World Cup has been gaining traction globally, and with Netflix's involvement, it is expected to reach even more viewers. The streaming platform's unique approach to storytelling and its ability to engage audiences through documentaries could enhance the visibility of women's sports, which have historically received less media coverage compared to their male counterparts [909a42af].
As the sports landscape continues to evolve, Netflix's acquisition of the Women’s World Cup rights could signify a shift in how major sporting events are consumed, reflecting the growing trend of streaming services taking on traditional broadcasting roles. This move aligns with broader changes in media consumption habits, as viewers increasingly turn to streaming platforms for live sports [909a42af].