Netflix and FIFA agree landmark US broadcasting deal ahead of the 2027 and 2031 Women’s World Cup

Netflix and FIFA have struck a landmark deal that will see the streaming giant gain exclusive rights to broadcast the Women’s World Cups in 2027 and 2031 in the United States. 

It comes as FIFA has also issued two separate invitations to tender in Australia for the rights to both tournaments.  

The Matildas captured the hearts of the nation during the 2023 World Cup, with thousands tuning in around the country to watch the Women’s side reach the semi-finals of the tournament.

Socceroos fans will be able to watch the men’s team on SBS next year, after the network won the exclusive rights to broadcast matches in Australia following the completion of a tender process in 2023.

In the US, Netflix are set to make history, with the streaming service set to expand its sports coverage into football, following its debut into live sport streaming with the Jake Paul versus Mike Tyson fight earlier this year.

FIFA hopes that the Netflix deal with expand the women’s game even further.

‘This is a landmark moment for sports media rights,’ FIFA President Gianni Infantino said.

‘As a marquee brand and FIFA’s new long-term partner, Netflix has shown a very strong level of commitment to growing women’s football. 

‘This agreement sends a strong message about the real value of the FIFA Women’s World Cup and the global women’s game. 

‘FIFA and Netflix partnering together makes this a truly historic day for broadcasting and for women’s football.’ 

It comes after the success of the recent Women’s World Cup held in Australia and New Zealand. 

The Matildas reached the final four of the tournament and Aussie viewers were able to watch every match for free with Seven’s coverage reaching 18.6 million with an additional 3.82 million on 7plus.

Not all fans are happy with the new Netflix arrangement, with many taking to social media to complain about lower income households being locked out of watching the next two World Cups.

‘Seeing the news about Netflix winning the rights to broadcast the Women’s World Cup, I can’t help but think that kids from lower income families will be less able to watch … Just makes me a little sad,’ one fan posted.

‘Sorry but this sucks so bad. I most likely never would have been exposed to women’s soccer or the World Cup if it had been behind a subscription service,’ added another.

‘The next two Women’s World Cups being on a purely streaming-only platform is a massive step back for the growth of women’s soccer. This is a huge disappointment,’ lamented another.

Netflix will also feature a documentary series leading up to the World Cups to promote the event. 

‘Bringing this iconic tournament to Netflix isn’t just about streaming matches,’ Netflix chief content officer Bela Bajaria said in a statement.

‘It’s also about celebrating the players, the culture and the passion driving the global rise of women’s sport.’