Why Netflix’s FIFA Women’s world cup deal is a smart move for its Business

It was about a broader shift in how the world watches sports — a digital-first, streaming-driven revolution.

In that same vein, Netflix’s recent acquisition of the exclusive rights to broadcast the 2027 and 2031 FIFA Women’s World Cups in the U.S. signals another landmark moment in sports broadcasting.

Recently, FIFA and Netflix reached a groundbreaking agreement for the exclusive broadcasting rights of the 2027 and 2031 FIFA Women’s World Cup™ in the United States, marking a major milestone for women’s football.

This deal isn’t just about a new streaming contract — it’s a testament to the shifting power dynamics between traditional sports media and streaming platforms, and it marks a pivotal moment in the history of women’s football.

Netflix’s move here isn’t just about capitalizing on a moment; it’s about transforming the very landscape of sports, and especially women’s football, which has long struggled to find its place in the spotlight. The Women’s World Cup is now positioned to be a flagship event, and Netflix’s deep pockets and cutting-edge approach to storytelling could turn it into one of the biggest sports events on the planet.

“This is a landmark moment for sports media rights,” said FIFA President Gianni Infantino. “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. 

“Besides broadcasting the tournaments themselves, Netflix will play a key role in terms of bringing the fascination of women’s football to a multimillion audience in the lead-up to both final tournaments, thereby enabling us to further increase their appeal.”

In recent years, women’s football has quietly built an increasing global following, with every tournament seeing a noticeable surge in viewership. Yet, despite its increasing popularity, the sport still isn’t really high up there in media attention and financial backing.

This deal represents Netflix’s belief in the untapped potential of women’s football — a belief that the sport, with its compelling narratives and growing global audience, is poised for a breakthrough.

This isn’t just about showcasing the tournament; it’s about telling the stories of the players, the nations they represent, and the passionate fans who cheer them on.

Netflix’s ability to craft compelling narratives around the sport will be key to engaging audiences and bringing a new level of excitement to the Women’s World Cup.

For women’s football, this partnership is a game-changer. The visibility and credibility that Netflix brings to the table could push the Women’s World Cup into the mainstream, accelerating the sport’s growth in a way that’s never been done before.

Netflix’s involvement doesn’t just mean more eyes on the sport — it means giving fans a reason to care about the players and their stories. It’s about creating a cultural moment where women’s sports are no longer an afterthought but a central part of the global sports conversation.

From a business perspective, Netflix’s investment in women’s football is nothing short of brilliant. The competition for content is fierce, and streaming services are in a battle to secure exclusive rights to the most valuable sports properties.

Moreover, Netflix’s focus on exclusive content is a smart strategy to boost subscriptions. In a crowded streaming market, sports rights have become the gold standard for attracting and retaining customers.

Moreover, Netflix’s focus on exclusive content is a smart strategy to boost subscriptions. In a crowded streaming market, sports rights have become the gold standard for attracting and retaining customers.

With the Women’s World Cup, Netflix not only secures a marquee sports property but also aligns itself with the growing movement for gender equality in sports, making it a socially conscious choice for subscribers.

Ultimately, Netflix’s move is more than just a business transaction. It’s a cultural shift. As women’s football rises in prominence, the future of sports broadcasting is no longer defined by the size of the men’s audience, but by the potential to reach untapped global markets and audiences hungry for stories they haven’t yet heard. ‘

Women’s football is ready for its moment, and Netflix, with its ability to connect people through compelling narratives, is poised to be the platform that helps make it happen.

Netflix’s exclusive deal for the 2027 and 2031 Women’s World Cups is more than just a broadcasting contract; it’s a commitment to the future of women’s sports. It’s a recognition that the world of women’s football is ready to break through and claim its place on the global stage.

As streaming continues to dominate the sports landscape, this partnership sets the stage for women’s football to rise to new heights, not just as a tournament, but as a cultural and media powerhouse.

As the Women’s World Cup prepares to take center stage, Netflix will be there, telling the stories of the players who will define the future of football. This is the beginning of something truly transformative, not only for the sport but for the way we think about sports media as a whole.