CBS and Paramount+ have made a significant move in the world of sports broadcasting, securing the exclusive US broadcast rights to the Uefa Women’s Champions League (UWCL) until the end of the 2029/30 campaign. This partnership marks a five-year deal that will see all 75 matches from the competition streamed on Paramount+, with selected games also available on CBS Sports Network and CBS Sports Golazo.
In a strategic shift, CBS now holds the rights to both men’s and women’s Uefa club competitions until the close of this decade. The network’s existing $1.5 billion agreement covering the Uefa Champions League, Uefa Europa League, and Uefa Conference League is set to expire in 2030 as well.
“The Uefa Women’s Champions League with its world class players adds tremendous value to CBS Sports’ premium soccer portfolio,”
said Dan Weinberg, executive vice president of programming at CBS Sports.
“We are proud to be the home of both men’s and women’s Uefa club competitions through 2030.”
With an eye towards enhancing viewer experience, starting from the upcoming season, UWCL will introduce a revamped format mirroring changes witnessed in its male counterpart during the recently concluded 2024/25 season. An innovative league phase featuring 18 teams aims to deliver more compelling matchups among Europe’s elite clubs, making it even more appealing for potential broadcasters.
Guy-Laurent Epstein, co-managing director of UC3 – a joint-venture between UEFA and ECA – expressed excitement about expanding their partnership with CBS Sports. He highlighted how this collaboration would showcase top-tier women’s club football in its fresh format over the next five seasons.
The transition from DAZN as broadcaster demonstrates an evolution in broadcasting dynamics for UWCL matches. DAZN had previously held global rights since the 2021/22 season under a pioneering four-year agreement which included free-to-air coverage along with select matches on YouTube.
Last week saw Disney+ secure pan-European rights for UWCL broadcasts becoming primary broadcaster across key markets like UK. This development underscores a shifting landscape where streaming platforms are increasingly becoming central players in delivering sports content to viewers globally.
CBS’ wide reach coupled with engaging programming tailored for soccer fans has positioned them favorably as they take over broadcasting responsibilities from DAZN. The move signifies not just a change in broadcasting hands but also serves as an indicator of how networks are adapting to evolving viewer preferences within sports media consumption.
The decision by UEFA signifies their intent on capitalizing on growing interest in European soccer within American audiences through partnerships that enhance visibility and engagement levels among fans across various platforms.
As per industry experts at SportsPro, CBS and Paramount+ have garnered praise for their coverage of men’s Champions League matches underscoring their ability to cater effectively to increased interest in European soccer within US markets. Their comprehensive sports strategy incorporating crucial soccer properties like NWSL, Serie A, EFL, SPFL, US Open Cup, and USL further solidifies their standing as leading destinations for soccer enthusiasts.
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