Netflix gets rights to show 2030 FIFA World Cup

Netflix has grabbed exclusive rights to show the 2030 FIFA World Cup in Spain and Andorra. This is a big move for the streaming service as it pushes into live sports.

The company shared this news in a blog post on Tuesday. They plan to air all 104 matches of the tournament, which will take place in Spain, Morocco, and Portugal.

Netflix said it will provide special pre-match, half-time, and post-match shows aimed at Spanish viewers. They will also broadcast the games live.

On each matchday in Spain, Netflix will make one match available for free. Matches featuring the Spanish national team, plus both semi-finals and the final, will be shown for free.

Bela Bajaria, Netflix’s chief content officer, talked about the deal with FIFA. He said it shows the company's desire to connect with fans globally through big sports events.

He added, "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.

"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."

FIFA Secretary General, Mattias Grafström, also welcomed the deal. He was hopeful about the partnership and what it means for fans.

"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.

This agreement adds to Netflix’s growing collection of live sports. The company has already secured the rights for the 2027 and 2031 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

Netflix is also moving into boxing. They recently got exclusive global rights for a fight scheduled on December 11 between British heavyweight boxers Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury.