ESPN and the English FA have agreed to a four-year extension of FA Cup TV rights in the United States, it has been announced.
The new deal runs through 2028, as 79 matches per season will continue to be streamed exclusively on ESPN+.
ESPN+ has shown the FA Cup since the 2018-19 season.
An ESPN spokesperson declined to share financials of the deal.
However, Sports Business Journal reported in 2018 that ESPN had agreed to pay $55million over three years for FA Cup rights – as part of a larger agreement with IMG that included other leagues.
Marcus Rashford and Kyle Walker are seen competing in last year’s FA Cup Final at Wembley
ESPN+ has shown the FA Cup in the USA since the 2018-19 season, and the new deal will run through 2028
‘It’s an exciting time for soccer in the US, with the game’s growth evident for all to see, and the FIFA World Cup in North America on the horizon,’ James Gray, the FA’s commercial director, said in a press release.
‘ESPN have been our valued partner for many years, so we’re really happy that they will continue to share the unique stories of the Emirates FA Cup with their audiences until 2028.’
ESPN+ will show the FA Cup Final this weekend between Man United and Man City – a repeat of last year’s matchup which City won.
The deal also includes the Community Shield, which will feature Arsenal vs. Man City if Pep Guardiola’s side complete a domestic double on Saturday.
