In a landscape-altering deal, The Walt Disney Co. will acquire NFL Media, including NFL Network and NFL RedZone, with the league acquiring a 10 percent ownership stake in the sports media giant.
“Today’s announcement paves the way for the world’s leading sports media brand and America’s most popular sport to deliver an even more compelling experience for NFL fans, in a way that only ESPN and Disney can,” said Disney CEO Bob Iger in a statement. “Commissioner Goodell and the NFL have built outstanding media assets, and these transactions will add to consumer choice, provide viewers with even greater convenience and quality, and expand the breadth and value proposition of Disney’s streaming ecosystem.”
“Since its launch in 2003, NFL Network has provided millions of fans unprecedented access to the sport they love,” added NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. “Whether it was debuting Thursday Night Football, televising the Combine, or telling incredible football stories through original shows and breaking news, NFL Network has delivered. The Network’s sale to ESPN will build on this remarkable legacy, providing more NFL football for more fans in new and innovative ways.”
The deal, more than a year in the making, will turbocharge ESPN’s streaming ambitions, bringing seven exclusive NFL games each season, as well as the popular RedZone whip-around program.
Given the size of the deal, it will require regulatory approval, and could take some time to close. Already some are wondering whether the administration could take a close look at the deal in a bid to seek concessions from Disney or the NFL.
More to come.