CBS Sports has reclaimed the exclusive rights to broadcast English soccer's top-tier Women's Super League (WSL) in the US for the next four seasons. This marks a significant shift from ESPN, which had covered this property for the past two seasons.
The deal, unveiled recently, was negotiated by IMG agency and represents a return to WSL coverage for CBS Sports. The broadcaster last aired the league in 2023-24. The agreement covers four seasons from 2026-27 through 2029-30 and coincides with an expansion of the league from 12 to 14 teams.
This development is particularly noteworthy as it signifies a substantial boost for WSL broadcast rights, especially considering that one of women’s soccer’s largest markets is in the US.
Comprehensive coverage on multiple platforms
Under this new arrangement, CBS' Paramount+ streaming service will cover all WSL matches from each season. Additionally, CBS Sports Network will air one game per week while select fixtures will be showcased through the CBS Sports Golazo Network platform.
Zarah Al-Kudcy, Chief Revenue Officer at WSL Football expressed her excitement about welcoming back CBS sports: "Their breadth of women’s football rights demonstrates their commitment to the game."
The deal also brings into focus several prominent players from America who are currently contracted with various teams within WSL such as Sam Coffey and Emily Fox at Arsenal; Naomi Girma also at Arsenal; and Phallon Tullis-Joyce at Manchester United.
International media rights distribution
Since September last year, IMG has been responsible for distributing and selling international media rights for WSL. Domestically however, live coverage of next season (2026-27) will be provided by pay-TV's Sky Sports along with free-to-air BBC and the league's own YouTube channel.
CBS Sports is not new to women’s soccer coverage. It also covers the National Women's Soccer League domestically, as well as the European UEFA Women's Champions League. Furthermore, in late February, CBS secured exclusive English-language rights to air all women’s competitions organized by Concacaf, soccer’s governing body across North and Central America, and the Caribbean.
This four-year deal between CBS Sports and WSL represents a significant milestone for women’s soccer coverage in one of its largest markets – the US. This move not only enhances visibility for WSL but also reaffirms CBS Sports’ commitment to promoting women’s football.
