ESPN+’s soccer domination continues with the acquisition of the US broadcasting rights for Italian Serie A matches in a multi-year deal announced yesterday. Most of the 340 matches will air on ESPN+, ESPN’s new $4.99 over the top subscription service that already has the rights to broadcast MLS, USL, UEFA League, Carabao Cup, FA Community Shield and EFL Championship matches. ESPN’s coverage begins on August 18th at noon ET with Cristiano Ronaldo’s Juventus debut versus Chievo Verona.
Speaking of the ex-Real Madrid superstar, his move to Italian giants Juventus no doubt played a role into ESPN’s decision to acquire the US rights to Serie A and compete directly with NBC’s English Premier League broadcasts. Burke Magnus, EVP, Programming, and Scheduling at ESPN stated in a press release “With Ronaldo’s arrival to Serie A TIM, we anticipate even more interest and exposure for this property in the seasons ahead.”
Coverage of Serie A will also include year-round news and highlights across all ESPN platforms, a weekly preview and highlight match of the week show (to be broadcast in both English and Spanish), and a Serie A goals of the week program.
With its wide selection of soccer offerings, ESPN+ is now cemented as a must-have service for the soccer fan and soccer professional.