Netflix secures rights to air 2030 World Cup in Spain

Netflix says it has secured exclusive rights to broadcast the 2030 FIFA men’s World Cup in Spain and Andorra.

In a blog post on Tuesday, the streaming giant said it will be the primary broadcaster for all 104 matches of the centenary edition of the mundial set to be co-hosted by Spain, Morocco, and Portugal.

Netflix revealed its plan to provide pre-game, halftime and post-game shows with a Spanish perspective as part of its full live coverage of the tournament.

It also said it will make one match free per matchday in Spain, with games involving the national team, including both semi-finals and the final, to be broadcast free-to-air.

Bela Bajaria, chief content officer of Netflix, said the company’s burgeoning relationship with FIFA reflects its commitment to its global audience.

“Few events unite people like the World Cup. I was in the stands this year as Spain lifted the trophy and witnessed the passion, the pride, the stories – they all become part of a nation’s culture and are remembered for generations,” he said.

“With Spain set to host in 2030, we’re thrilled to bring every match to fans across Spain and Andorra on Netflix. For Spanish football fans, welcoming the world as reigning champions on Netflix will make this a moment unlike any other.

“And our expanding partnership with FIFA, including the Women’s World Cup in 2027 and 2031 for the U.S. and Canada, reflects our continued commitment to bringing fans closer to the world’s biggest sports moments.”

Mattias Grafström, FIFA secretary general, stated that the organisation is pleased with Netflix on a partnership geared towards ensuring fans are closer to the game.

“We are pleased to build on our partnership with Netflix as we look ahead to the FIFA World Cup 2030. This will be a special edition of the tournament, and we look forward to working together to bring it to fans across Spain and Andorra. Our shared ambition is to bring fans closer to the game and enable as many people as possible to share in the excitement of the competition,” Grafström said.

Netflix has ventured into sports broadcasting in recent times and was awarded broadcast rights for the next two editions of the Women’s World Cup in 2027 and 2031.

It also recently secured the exclusive global broadcasting rights to the boxing match between Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury on December 11.
(TheCable)