Television CBS, ESPN, Prime Video, and ION Television Sign Media Agreement with National Women’s Soccer League

The National Women’s Soccer League has announced a new media rights deal with CBS, ESPN, Amazon Prime Video, and Scripps Sports, showcasing the league’s matches on these platforms.

NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman expressed her excitement about the partnership, stating, “These partners believe in our future. They believe in our players, they believe in what we can be. We’re resetting the standards by which women’s sports can be valued.”

The league’s current deal with CBS Sports will conclude at the end of this season, while the new media rights package will run through 2027. Financial details of the agreement were not disclosed.

The NWSL championship will be aired on CBS, featuring a match between Gotham FC and OL Reign. CBS will continue to broadcast the championship game on its main network.

CBS Sports Chairman Sean McManus emphasized their dedication to promoting women’s sports, stating, “Extending this partnership further demonstrates our commitment to elevating women’s sports as we continue to work hand-in-hand with the NWSL to highlight the world’s best women’s soccer players.”

Under the new agreement, Prime Video will host a Friday night game each weekend, and Scripps’ ION network will feature a double-header every Saturday night. Additionally, at least 21 regular-season games will stream live on Paramount+, CBS Sports Network, or CBS.

Moreover, a package of 20 games will be aired across ESPN’s platforms, including ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, and ESPN Deportes as part of the deal.

The NWSL has joined forces with Endeavor, a global sports and entertainment marketing firm, for partnerships and international streaming services. Earlier this year, NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman reported a 21% increase in viewership on CBS and Paramount+ compared to the previous season.

Megan Rapinoe’s farewell match for OL Reign in Seattle attracted 683,000 viewers on CBS last month, making it the most-watched regular-season NWSL game to date. The match also drew a record 34,134 fans to Lumen Field.

Rapinoe is set to retire from soccer following Saturday’s championship.

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AP soccer: apnews.com/hub/soccer