US sports broadcaster, ESPN, has announced the renewal of its broadcast deal with the United Soccer League (USL), a significant player in American soccer. This renewed partnership will see ESPN continue to air action from the second and third-tier USL Championship and USL League One competitions.
ESPN, owned by media giant Disney, is set to broadcast over 400 games from across these two competitions. The matches will be aired live across various channels and OTT platforms under ESPN's umbrella. This move ensures that fans have access to an extensive range of games throughout each season.
In addition to broadcasting the USL Championship and League One matches, ESPN will also exclusively cover the inaugural in-season cup competition for USL League One. This competition involves 12 teams playing in smaller group contests.
ESPN have also collaborated with CBS for OTT streaming
The partnership between ESPN and USL isn't new; it spans nine years back when it was one of the first sports properties housed on the ESPN+ OTT service.
USL, chief commercial officer Court Jeske said:
“We have enjoyed a longstanding relationship with ESPN during which the USL has grown significantly, and we are incredibly excited to continue this relationship.”
The announcement also marks a significant milestone for the upcoming 2024 season as CBS joins as another national network partner. CBS plans on taking on a slate of 100 games per year through till 2027.
Most broadcasts by both networks are expected to be aired on their respective OTT platforms - namely, ESPN’s platform (ESPN+) and CBS’ platform (Paramount+). Between them both, they plan on syndicating a total of 35 USL matches on national linear TV—an increase from just nine games broadcasted this way in 2023—with all remaining matches being streamed online.
ESPN will be happier side with World Cup 2026 in US
With Major League Soccer shifting towards a streaming-only model through its lucrative deal with Apple TV+, CBS and ESPN will be the only broadcasters to show live domestic men's soccer on linear television.
This shift presents a unique opportunity for both broadcasters and the USL, especially with the growing interest in soccer in the country ahead of the US’ joint hosting of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This increased visibility and accessibility could potentially reap significant dividends for all parties involved.
This renewed partnership between ESPN and USL, coupled with CBS's involvement, promises an exciting time for sports fans and sports betting enthusiasts alike. The increased coverage ensures that viewers have access to more games than ever before—both online and on linear TV—providing a comprehensive viewing experience for all soccer fans across America.
