Netflix has secured the exclusive US broadcasting rights to the Women’s World Cup in 2027 and 2031 – leaving fans concerned following recent complaints about its faulty live coverage.
The streaming giant confirmed the news on Friday after fending off competition to land the next two editions of the women’s soccer festival, which was previously broadcast on Fox in the US back in 2023.
While the value is currently unclear, the deal is the most significant FIFA has signed with a streaming service for a major tournament, with World Cups typically broadcast on free-to-air public networks to reach the biggest audiences.
However, more of a worry for women’s soccer fans is the quality of coverage that could be on offer when the world’s top nations battle it out in 2027 and 2031.
Netflix’s live coverage of the controversial fight between Mike Tyson and Jake Paul last month was marred by technical problems, with millions of fans complaining of a buffering stream, audio problems and more.
And after hearing that the next two Women’s World Cups will also be broadcast on the platform, fans expressed their concerns on social media.
Spain squad celebrates after defeating England during the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023 Final match between Spain and England at Stadium Australia
One user commented: ‘Better tune in now to get ahead of all the inevitable buffering.’
Another fan quipped: ‘Surprised the announcement isn’t still buffering…’
While one joked: ‘O yes. Because their boxing match went so well…’
The 32-team, 64-game tournament in 2027 will be played in Brazil from June 24-July 25. The 2031 host has not been decided, though the U.S. is expected to bid.
Spain won the 2023 Women’s World Cup played in Australia and New Zealand, after the U.S. won the two previous titles.
FIFA has since followed with its own announcement, describing the agreement as ‘historic.’
‘The historic deal will provide US-based fans with unparalleled access to every match live and to immersive coverage, including star-studded studio shows in what is set to be an unprecedented celebration of the women’s game,’ read FIFA’s statement.
‘The agreement includes Puerto Rico and covers all languages, with top-tier talent poised to feature in a dual telecast for both English- and Spanish-language broadcasts in the US.’