Netflix lands Spain’s 2030 World Cup coverage, with key matches remaining free to watch

Netflix has secured exclusive rights to broadcast all 104 matches of the 2030 men's World Cup live in Spain and Andorra. The California-based streaming giant announced the deal without disclosing financial terms, marking its first major international football tournament broadcast in Spain. Despite owning exclusive rights, viewers in Spain will have the option to watch one match per matchday for free, while a nationwide free-to-air broadcaster will receive a package covering every Spanish national team game, semi-finals, and the final.

The exact broadcaster has not been revealed yet. Further details on the agreement will be shared closer to the tournament. Spain, as the reigning champion after winning this year's World Cup in North America, will host the competition along with Portugal and Morocco. Special centenary matches will be hosted by Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay to commemorate the first World Cup in 1930.

Netflix's chief content officer, Bela Bajaria, expressed excitement about the tournament, noting its ability to unite people and create lasting cultural memories. The agreement also includes Netflix's plans for studio coverage, including pre-game, halftime, and post-game analysis with a Spanish perspective, as well as daily matchday round-ups and programs leading up to the World Cup.

This move strengthens Netflix's relationship with FIFA and its growing challenge to established sports broadcasters, coming after the company secured rights for the 2027 Women's World Cup in Brazil and the 2031 tournament jointly hosted by Costa Rica, Jamaica, Mexico, and the United States. FIFA secretary general Mattias Grafström welcomed the partnership, emphasizing the joint aim to bring fans closer to the game and make the competition accessible to as many people as possible.