Netflix has secured exclusive broadcasting rights in Spain and Andorra for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, marking a significant expansion of the streaming platform’s presence in live sport. The agreement will allow subscribers in both territories to watch all 104 matches of the centenary edition of football’s premier international tournament live.
Announced on 13 October, the deal covers the competition across its three host nations — Spain, Portugal and Morocco — as well as the special centenary matches scheduled to take place in Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay. The agreement applies specifically to Spain and Andorra; it does not give Netflix worldwide broadcasting rights to the tournament. Arrangements for other territories are determined separately.
The 2030 edition will mark 100 years since the first men’s World Cup was held in Uruguay in 1930. The three South American countries will host commemorative fixtures as part of the anniversary celebrations, while the main tournament will be staged across southern Europe and North Africa.
Netflix plans to provide comprehensive live coverage, including programmes before matches, half-time analysis and post-match discussions. A daily round-up programme will also be available on matchdays, alongside additional content designed to build anticipation in the run-up to the competition. The platform has indicated that its coverage will offer a distinct Spanish perspective for viewers in the two territories.
Free-to-air coverage included
The agreement includes measures intended to maintain access for audiences who do not subscribe to Netflix. One match on each matchday will be available to watch free of charge in Spain.
A package of selected fixtures will also be made available to a national free-to-air broadcaster. This package will include every match played by Spain, both semi-finals and the final. The identity of the broadcaster and further details of the arrangement are expected to be announced closer to the tournament.
The deal represents a notable development in the way major football competitions are delivered to audiences. Streaming services have increasingly invested in live sport, seeking to attract viewers through a combination of live events, analysis and related programmes. For supporters, the balance between subscription access and free-to-air coverage remains an important consideration, particularly for a tournament with a broad national and international following.
FIFA and Netflix welcome the agreement
Bela Bajaria, Netflix’s chief content officer, said the World Cup had a unique ability to unite people and create memories that become part of a nation’s culture. She recalled witnessing the emotion and pride surrounding Spain’s World Cup triumph and said the platform was pleased to bring every match to fans in Spain and Andorra when the country hosts the tournament in 2030.
FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafström also welcomed the partnership. He described the 2030 competition as a special edition and said FIFA looked forward to working with Netflix to bring the tournament to supporters across Spain and Andorra.
The agreement builds on Netflix’s existing relationship with FIFA. The platform also holds broadcasting rights for the 2027 and 2031 editions of the FIFA Women’s World Cup in the United States and Canada.
With all 104 matches set to be available live through Netflix in Spain and Andorra, the deal places streaming at the centre of the tournament’s coverage in those territories. The free-to-air arrangements are intended to ensure that selected key fixtures remain accessible to a wider audience, including supporters who do not have a paid subscription.
