Global subscription streaming service DAZN has secured exclusive rights to the next three seasons of German soccer's Bundesliga. This move marks a significant milestone in the sports broadcasting landscape.
From the 2025-26 season through to 2027-28, DAZN will cover all nine Bundesliga matches from each gameweek of the German top-tier soccer league across all 34 rounds. This agreement was reached with Bundesliga International, the international arm of the 18-team league.
In addition to covering every game from each round of fixtures in Germany's premier football competition, DAZN will also broadcast action from other key events in German football. The season-opening German Supercup on August 16 is included in this package where reigning champions Bayern Munich will face off against VfB Stuttgart - last season’s winners of the DFB-Pokal cup competition.
Shift from previous broadcasters
This development signifies a shift from previous broadcasting arrangements for Japanese viewers. Last season saw Abema providing coverage for Bundesliga games under a sub-license agreement with original rights-holder Sky PerfecTV whose deal expired at end of 2024-25.
The new deal could have significant implications for Japanese players currently playing their trade in Germany such as Hiroki Itō at Bayern Munich and Eintracht Frankfurt's recent signing Ritsu Dōan. Their performances can now be followed more closely by fans back home thanks to this comprehensive coverage by DAZN Japan.
Peer Naubert, Bundesliga International's chief executive, has said:
"A total of 10 Japanese players have transferred to Bundesliga or Bundesliga 2 clubs in the summer of 2025 alone. With DAZN as our trusted partner, we're excited to bring the stories of these local stars even closer to fans across the country – with world-class football, authentic storytelling, and a viewing experience tailored to the Japanese audience."
Other media rights activities
In other recent media rights activities involving Bundesliga, pay-TV giant Sky Italia announced a four-season renewal earlier this week. They will maintain their status as the exclusive TV partner for Bundesliga in Italy, covering not just the top-tier league but also Bundesliga 2, the Supercup and end-of-season relegation playoffs.
DAZN Japan is not limiting its coverage to German football. In late July, it announced an extension of its rights deal with Belgium's top-tier Pro League. The streaming platform also holds rights to other major European soccer leagues including those in Spain, Italy and France.
The new Bundesliga season will kick off on August 22 with a match between defending champions Bayern Munich and RB Leipzig. Domestically, live coverage will be provided by Sky Deutschland and DAZN. This acquisition by DAZN Japan further solidifies their position as a leading sports broadcaster catering to sports fans and betting enthusiasts alike.
