ESPN+ Lands U.S. Rights for Bundesliga

ESPN+ will become the new home of Bundesliga coverage in the U.S. via a long-term deal that begins in August 2020.

The pact will see more than 300 German football games per season on the subscription OTT platform, with select matches on the linear channels. The deal also covers live streaming of DFL Supercup and relegation play-off matches. ESPN+ will carry the games live and on-demand, with commentary in English and Spanish.

Robert Klein, Bundesliga International CEO, commented, “It was clear from the start that ESPN and ESPN+ shared our ambitious vision. As innovators in the sports industry, we’re both driven to deliver highly engaging content for fans. They will help us build on the strong connections the Bundesliga has with the U.S. having welcomed more American players than any other European league. They’re attracted by the authentic, entertaining soccer we describe as ‘Football As It’s Meant To Be’, played in front of the largest spectator numbers in the sport and epitomized by the highest goals per game average of all top European leagues. Germany will continue to be an important source of talent for future U.S. national teams and with ESPN we’re incredibly excited to take fans on their journey in the lead up to their home World Cup in 2026.”

Russell Wolf, executive VP and general manager of ESPN+, added, “With a strong connection to the American soccer community, a growing audience in the U.S. and some of the most well-known clubs and players in the world, the addition of the Bundesliga further cements ESPN+ as a must-have for any soccer fan.”