Sports enthusiasts, especially those following organizations like the UFC, may see changes in how they access live events and content. ESPN has revealed its intention to launch a new direct-to-consumer streaming service in the fall, providing subscribers access to all of its linear networks, including ESPN, ESPN2, and others.
The core offering for this new standalone service will be priced at $29.99 per month. This plan is set to include unlimited access to the content aired on the primary ESPN channels, as well as events shown on ESPN on ABC.
ESPN also plans to introduce bundle options, allowing users to combine their sports subscription with Disney+ and Hulu for an added cost. A comprehensive bundle is expected to cost $35.99 per month, although a special introductory rate of $29.99 per month will be offered for the first year upon launch.
Content from the existing ESPN+ service, which is sometimes being referred to as `ESPN select`, will be incorporated into the new main streaming platform. However, ESPN+ will continue to be available as a separate subscription priced at $11.99 per month. It`s crucial to understand that live programming exclusive to the main ESPN linear networks will still require either a traditional cable/satellite package or the new direct-to-consumer streaming service; the standalone ESPN+ does not provide access to this specific content.
For those preferring an annual commitment, a yearly plan will be available for $299.99. Additionally, a premium bundle option providing an ad-free experience for the included Disney+ and Hulu components will be offered at $44.99 per month.
Commenting on the forthcoming service, ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro stated, “It’s going to redefine our business.”
This announcement occurs at a significant juncture for the UFC, as its current broadcast rights agreement with ESPN is scheduled to conclude at the end of 2025. The UFC recently saw its exclusive negotiation window with ESPN expire, meaning it can now consider proposals from other potential media partners.
Reports indicate that the UFC is aiming for a substantial increase in its next rights deal, seeking approximately $1 billion annually. This is a significant jump from the estimated $300 million annual average ESPN has been paying under the current seven-year contract signed in 2018.
Given the limited availability of major sports packages on the market for potential partners in the coming years, the UFC currently possesses considerable leverage in these upcoming negotiations.
The launch of ESPN`s new direct streaming service could potentially impact the ongoing discussions regarding the UFC`s media rights. Offering a platform that allows fans to access content without a traditional cable subscription could broaden the potential audience. However, this increased accessibility comes at a direct monthly cost to the consumer through the new service`s subscription fee.
While a precise launch date has not yet been finalized, the service is anticipated to go live sometime in the fall, strategically timed ahead of the more intense part of the NFL season.
