Record $60M NWSL Media Deal: ESPN, CBS, and More

 Record $60M NWSL Media Deal: ESPN, CBS, and More

Record $60M NWSL Media Deal: ESPN, CBS, and More(Image-Getty)

On Thursday, the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) announced a groundbreaking four-year media deal with prominent broadcasters including ESPN, CBS, Prime Sports, and Scripps' ION Network. Valued at approximately $60 million annually, the deal has been hailed as the "largest media investment in women's sports history" by the NWSL, projecting unprecedented distribution and revenue for the premier American league.

In a press briefing, NWSL commissioner Jessica Berman emphasized the belief that their partners hold in the future of the league. She expressed enthusiasm about the prospect of establishing new standards for the valuation of women's sports, considering it a testament to the league's growing prominence and significance.

The four-platform agreement, set to commence in 2024, will feature the distribution of 118 matches. CBS, in particular, has secured the rights to broadcast the championship match annually during prime time, consolidating its position as a leading destination for women's sports.

Expressing excitement about the deal, Rosalyn Durant, ESPN's executive vice president for programming and acquisitions, affirmed the network's commitment to bolstering its role as the primary platform for women's sports. Notably, the NWSL has experienced a steady increase in viewership, and the recent announcement follows a surge in viewership during the Women's World Cup held in Australia and New Zealand.

The forthcoming 2024 NWSL season is set to feature the addition of two expansion teams, Bay FC and the Utah Royals, indicating a promising era of growth and development for the league.