FIFA has entered a landmark partnership with Netflix to stream the 2027 and 2031 Women’s World Cups in the United States. This collaboration, announced on Friday, stands as FIFA’s most significant streaming deal for a major tournament.
While the financial details remain undisclosed, women’s international soccer tournaments have historically faced challenges in securing high-value broadcasting agreements.
The partnership with Netflix signals FIFA’s commitment to enhancing the visibility of women’s soccer. FIFA President Gianni Infantino highlighted the importance of this deal, stating it “sends a clear message about the real value of the FIFA Women’s World Cup and women’s sports globally.”
Netflix will also produce exclusive documentaries leading up to the tournaments, spotlighting the world’s top female players, their journeys, and the global rise of women’s soccer.
Upcoming Tournaments and Potential Hosts
The next Women’s World Cup will feature 32 teams and 64 matches, taking place in Brazil from June 24 to July 25, 2027. The host nation for the 2031 edition has not been confirmed, but the United States is expected to bid.
FIFA anticipates expanding the tournament to 48 teams, aligning it with the men’s 104-match format debuting in 2026 across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
FIFA Women’s Soccer and Financial Growth
Women’s soccer continues to grow in popularity, though its financial returns still trail behind the men’s game. In 2023, the Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand contributed $244 million in broadcasting revenue, compared to the $2.9 billion generated by the men’s World Cup in 2022.
Infantino has been critical of undervalued broadcasting offers, particularly from European networks, for past women’s tournaments. The deal with Netflix could serve as leverage in upcoming negotiations with broadcasters in other regions.
Netflix’s move into live sports marks a significant shift in its content strategy. Last month, the platform attracted over 60 million viewers for a boxing match featuring Mike Tyson and Jake Paul. Netflix has also secured a three-year deal to stream NFL games during Christmas, starting with two matches this year.
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