Netflix makes a major move into live sports with the announcement that they will be streaming Christmas Day National Football League games for the next three years. This marks the streaming platform’s first true step into live sports, showing their commitment to expanding their content offerings.
The deal will see Netflix streaming two games on Christmas Day this year, with at least one matchup in both 2025 and 2026. The games will still be available on broadcast TV in local team markets and on the NFL+ mobile app, giving fans multiple ways to watch.
While the terms of the deal were not disclosed, sources familiar with the matter revealed that Netflix will be paying around $75 million per game. This significant investment demonstrates Netflix’s dedication to bringing high-quality live sports content to their platform.
Netflix will be hiring its own announcers for the games and partnering with existing production companies to ensure a seamless viewing experience. Chief Content Officer Ted Sarandos noted that the NFL was the perfect fit for Netflix’s event strategy, allowing them to effectively own the day.
This move comes as Netflix has been exploring different ways to incorporate live events into their programming. From documentaries like “Formula 1: Drive to Survive” to series like “Quarterback,” Netflix has been testing the waters with sports content. The success of these ventures likely played a role in their decision to delve deeper into live sports.
The announcement also comes at a crucial time for Netflix as they look to boost profits through various strategies like raising subscription prices and cracking down on password sharing. The addition of live NFL games could be a significant draw for advertisers, given the large viewership numbers of Christmas Day matchups.
Overall, Netflix’s foray into live sports with the NFL games represents a bold move that could pay off in attracting new subscribers and expanding their audience. As the streaming landscape continues to evolve, live sports programming is becoming increasingly important, and Netflix is positioning itself as a major player in this space.
