The United Soccer League (USL) Super League, a newly established professional women's soccer division in the United States, has signed a deal with Peacock to be its official streaming platform. This partnership comes as the league prepares for its inaugural season in August this year.
Eight teams from cities including Tampa Bay, Dallas, Spokane and Fort Lauderdale will compete in this new league. The competition is set to rival the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). With this deal, all eight teams now have a dedicated platform where their games will be available for viewers across America.
Every game of the inaugural USL Super League season will be streamed on Peacock. This includes 115 USL games spanning both regular and postseason play. The season kicks off on August 17 and 18 with four scheduled matches.
Peacock strengthening grip in US football
The agreement with Peacock is significant as it provides a single home for all USL Super League games. Unlike NWSL which has deals with multiple broadcasters, fans can find every game of the USL Super League at one spot - on Peacock.
Peacock has already established itself as an important player in American soccer broadcasting landscape by securing rights to English Premier League matches from NBC. Now it extends its reach into women's soccer by becoming exclusive broadcaster for all games of USL Super
league.
Peacock looking to ride on USL’s success
While NBC did not disclose whether any games would also air on NBC or USA Network channels, they are using their streaming service as a way to gauge interest in this new league. Given that millions subscribe to Peacock – a number that continues growing – it offers an expansive base for promoting women’s soccer division.
Amanda Vandervort, President of the USL Super League expressed her optimism about partnering with Peacock. She emphasized her goal of growing the USL Super League into one of the world's premier women’s soccer divisions.
Amanda Vandervort, President of the USL, said:
“NBC Sports and Peacock have raised the bar for soccer coverage in the United States, and their commitment to the USL Super League is a testament to what we are building, It affirms the Super League’s integral role in elevating women’s soccer and bringing more opportunities for players, coaches, and fans in the women’s game.”
To surpass NWSL, having a dedicated streaming home like Peacock is a strategic move for the USL Super League. While NWSL has benefited from deals with CBS, ESPN, Amazon and Scripps, their multiple broadcasting partners can be confusing for fans.
In contrast, having all games in one place makes it easier for fans to follow the league. Furthermore, as NBC will broadcast this summer's Olympics matches and Peacock will cover much of it, there are opportunities to promote USL Super League during these international games. This could alert more fans about when and where they can watch their favorite teams play.
