ESPN officially purchases NFL Network and RedZone for a 10% ownership stake
ESPN Acquires NFL Network, NFL RedZone, and NFL Fantasy in Landmark Deal
In a groundbreaking move, ESPN has agreed to acquire NFL Network, NFL RedZone (including brand and distribution rights), and NFL Fantasy, marking a significant expansion of its sports media portfolio. The deal, subject to final approval by NFL owners and other conditions, will see the NFL acquire a 10% equity stake in ESPN.
Under the terms of the agreement, ESPN will own and operate NFL Network fully, integrating it into its upcoming direct-to-consumer (DTC) streaming service, as well as continuing traditional pay-TV distribution. NFL Network will continue to broadcast seven games per season, while ESPN's platforms will license three additional NFL games per season, totaling 28 games on ESPN’s platforms with some games shifting to NFL Network.
The acquisition also includes the NFL RedZone brand and distribution rights. ESPN will obtain ownership and broad distribution rights, but the NFL will continue to own, operate, and produce the NFL RedZone programming as well as distribute it digitally. This means the NFL RedZone will remain available via cable and satellite.
A key aspect of the deal involves the merger of NFL Fantasy with ESPN Fantasy Football, making ESPN Fantasy Football the official fantasy football game of the NFL. The merger aims to broaden reach and improve the digital experience for fans. The NFL will retain ownership and operations of certain media properties like NFL Films, NFL+, NFL.com, the NFL Podcast Network, NFL FAST Channel, and official team sites.
Disney CEO Bob Iger highlighted that the agreement will enhance consumer choice, convenience, quality, and expand Disney's streaming ecosystem with the world's leading sports media brand and America's most popular sport. ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro emphasized that this deal "fuels ESPN's digital future" and establishes a "premier destination for football fans," leveraging ESPN's reach and innovation.
The new deal is expected to redefine how fans engage with the game, anytime and anywhere. It will provide more NFL football for more fans in new and innovative ways, while also laying the foundation for a more robust offering as ESPN prepares to launch its new direct-to-consumer service. The sale of NFL Network is expected to build on its remarkable legacy. The NFL will continue producing and distributing the digital version of RedZone independently.
- The acquisition of NFL Network by ESPN, as part of the landmark deal, will allow them to fully own and operate the network, integrating it into their upcoming direct-to-consumer (DTC) streaming service.
- The rights for NFL RedZone, including the brand and distribution, have been acquired by ESPN, but the NFL will continue to own, operate, and produce the RedZone programming, ensuring its availability via cable and satellite.
- The merger of NFL Fantasy with ESPN Fantasy Football will make ESPN Fantasy Football the official fantasy football game of the NFL, broadening reach and improving the digital experience for fans.
