The National Women’s Soccer League Secures New Media Rights Deal

The National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) has recently announced an exciting media rights deal, expanding its reach and visibility. Under the new agreement, NWSL matches will be broadcasted on ESPN, CBS Sports, Amazon’s Prime Video, and Scripps Sports.

A Promising Future Supported by Strong Partners

NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman expressed her confidence in the league's future, stating, "These partners believe in our future. They believe in our players, and they believe in what we can be. We’re resetting the standards by which women’s sports can be valued."

The current media rights deal with Paramount's CBS Sports is set to conclude at the end of the current season. The new package, which extends until 2027, is a sign of the league's growth and increasing value. However, financial details of this agreement have not been disclosed.

Saturday Night Championship Showdown on CBS

To solidify its commitment to women's sports, CBS will continue to broadcast the NWSL championship game on its main network. This year's big match between Gotham FC and OL Reign will be aired on Saturday night.

Exciting Changes for Next Season

Starting from the next season, Amazon's Prime Video will kick off each weekend with a Friday night game. Additionally, Scripps' ION network will feature a double-header of NWSL games every Saturday night.

Extensive Coverage Across Multiple Networks

Fans can enjoy a package of at least 21 regular-season games, streaming live on Paramount+, CBS Sports Network, or CBS. Furthermore, Disney's ESPN platforms, including ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, and ESPN Deportes, will air another package of 20 games.

Partnership with Endeavor and Impressive Viewership Numbers

The NWSL has partnered with Endeavor, a renowned global sports and entertainment marketing firm with established connections in the NHL and NFL. Endeavor is not only the league's data and international streaming provider but also helps drive its success.

The league has experienced a significant increase in viewership this season. NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman reported a 21% year-over-year growth in viewership on CBS and its streaming affiliate Paramount+. One of the highlights was Megan Rapinoe's farewell match for OL Reign in Seattle, which attracted an average of 683,000 viewers on CBS. This game became the most-watched regular-season NWSL game to date, with a record-breaking attendance of 34,134 fans at Lumen Field.

A Historic Championship and Farewell

As the season concludes, Megan Rapinoe plans to retire from soccer following Saturday’s championship match. It is sure to be an emotional and highly-anticipated event.

The NWSL's new media rights deal demonstrates its determination to elevate women's sports and provide a platform for the world's best women's soccer players. With support from prestigious partners like ESPN, CBS Sports, Amazon's Prime Video, and Scripps Sports, the NWSL is forging a bright future for women's soccer.