UPDATE: Starting October 2, 2023, sports fans in the U.S. can subscribe to a groundbreaking new bundle from ESPN and Fox One for just $33.99 per month, a significant savings of $16.99 compared to purchasing each service separately. This development comes as the live sports streaming landscape undergoes a seismic shift, impacting how viewers access their favorite events.
The new bundle combines ESPN and Fox’s offerings, providing subscribers with access to an extensive lineup, including the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, College Football, NASCAR, INDYCAR, and the upcoming FIFA World Cup. Notably, UFC will transition from ESPN to Paramount+, while WWE is set to move from Peacock to ESPN in 2026.
This strategic alliance is a direct response to the fierce competition for sports streaming rights, a battleground that has seen major investments from both companies. Tony Billetter from Fox stated, “This bundle will redefine how sports fans engage with live events.”
Subscribers can also opt for an ‘Unlimited’ premium plan through ESPN’s new standalone app, bundled with Disney+ and Hulu for only $29.99 per month during a special launch offer starting on August 21. This deal enhances accessibility to a variety of content, making it a lucrative option for families and sports enthusiasts alike.
The implications of this bundle are profound. With sports rights becoming increasingly crucial for streaming platforms, the competition is driving up prices. NBCUniversal’s recent price hikes on Peacock have left many subscribers frustrated, highlighting the ongoing trend of rising costs in the streaming realm.
As ESPN’s new deal for WWE rights kicks in, fans can look forward to significant events such as WrestleMania and the Royal Rumble being included in this comprehensive package starting in 2026. This transition means Peacock subscribers will lose access to WWE events, prompting many to consider their streaming options.
Industry experts note that securing sports rights is essential for streaming services to regain viewership that has shifted towards traditional broadcasters. Paramount’s hefty $7.7 billion deal for UFC rights is a prime example of the lengths companies will go to attract and retain subscribers.
As the streaming landscape continues to evolve, companies are strategizing their offerings. Warner Bros. Discovery is planning a standalone service for its TNT Sports content, further intensifying the competition. Additionally, rumors abound regarding the merger of Fubo TV with Hulu + Live TV, expected to take place by early 2024.
With the launch of these new bundles and the potential for further price hikes, subscribers are urged to stay informed and review their streaming agreements carefully. The rapid developments in sports streaming mean fans need to be proactive in securing the best deals to ensure they don’t miss out on their favorite events.
As this story develops, sports fans will want to keep a close eye on the latest updates regarding these exciting changes in the streaming landscape. For now, the ESPN and Fox One bundle is set to shake up how we watch sports, promising significant savings and access to a wide range of live events.