Netflix has secured exclusive rights to show all 104 matches of the 2030 FIFA World Cup in Spain and Andorra as it expands its live sports coverage.
The deal adds the men’s World Cup to Netflix’s growing sports portfolio. The streaming company already broadcasts NFL games and holds US rights to the next two editions of the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Spain, Portugal and Morocco will host the 2030 tournament. Netflix’s deal covers Spain and Andorra, giving it access to one of the world’s biggest sporting events.
The company did not disclose the financial terms of the agreement in its press release, according to Bloomberg.
However, viewers will not need a Netflix subscription to watch some key matches. The company said a national broadcaster will show selected games for free. These include every match involving Spain, both semi-finals and the final.
The arrangement gives Netflix exclusive rights in the two markets while allowing viewers to watch some of the tournament’s biggest games without paying for a subscription.
Netflix continues to expand beyond films and television series as it competes for viewers in the live sports market. Major sporting events can help the company attract new subscribers and keep existing ones.
Investors also reacted to the announcement. Netflix shares rose about 1 per cent in premarket trading on Tuesday.
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