- Australia reached the final four in home tournament in 2023
- Record crowds and television audiences enjoyed their run
- New arrangement could lock many of them out for 2027
Netflix and FIFA have struck a landmark deal that will see the streaming giant gain exclusive rights to broadcast the Women’s World Cups in 2027 and 2031 in the United States.
FIFA also opened separate invitations to tender last year for the rights to both tournaments in Australia.
The Matildas captured the hearts of the nation during the 2023 World Cup, with thousands tuning in around the country to watch the Women’s side reach the semi-finals of the tournament.
Socceroos fans will be able to watch the men’s team on SBS at the 2026 World Cup, after the network won the exclusive rights to broadcast matches in Australia following the completion of a tender process in 2023.
Netflix are now due to make history in the US, with the streaming service set to expand its sports coverage into football, following its debut into live sport streaming with the Jake Paul versus Mike Tyson fight earlier this year.
FIFA hopes that the Netflix deal with expand the women’s game even further.
Injured skipper Sam Kerr made a huge return for the Matildas at the 2023 Women’s World Cup
A legion of new fans turned out to watch the Matildas in their giant-slaying run in 2023
There are fears fans will drop off, now that the World Cup is on subscription streaming service Netflix
‘This is a landmark moment for sports media rights,’ FIFA President Gianni Infantino said.
‘As a marquee brand and FIFA’s new long-term partner, Netflix has shown a very strong level of commitment to growing women’s football.
‘This agreement sends a strong message about the real value of the FIFA Women’s World Cup and the global women’s game.
‘FIFA and Netflix partnering together makes this a truly historic day for broadcasting and for women’s football.’
It comes after the success of the recent Women’s World Cup held in Australia and New Zealand.
Aussie viewers were able to watch every match for free with Seven’s coverage reaching 18.6 million with an additional 3.82 million on 7plus.
US viewers will also be able to watch a documentary series on Netflix leading up to the World Cups to promote the event.
‘Bringing this iconic tournament to Netflix isn’t just about streaming matches,’ Netflix chief content officer Bela Bajaria said in a statement.
‘It’s also about celebrating the players, the culture and the passion driving the global rise of women’s sport.’
