In a groundbreaking move, the United Soccer League (USL) and CBS Sports have come together to bring American men’s professional soccer to a wider audience.
This multi-year agreement will see 100 USL Championship and USL League One matches broadcasted annually on CBS Sports through 2027.
NEWS: The USL and CBS Sports have reached a multiyear deal to air 100 USL Championship and USL League One matches annually through 2027.
It will mark the first time the league will be presented on network television.
— Front Office Sports (@FOS) November 7, 2023
As part of the deal, CBS Sports will handpick select USL matches, including the USL Championship Final, to be aired on its flagship CBS channel each season.
This marks a significant milestone for the league, as it will be the first time USL matches are featured on network television.
Additionally, CBS Sports Network will broadcast 20 matches, while CBS Sports Golazo Network will air 75 matches each season. Paramount+ will simulcast CBS and Golazo Network matches.
USL CEO Alec Papadakis expressed excitement about the partnership and the opportunity to showcase the unique soccer experience that the league offers on CBS Sports platforms.
“CBS Sports has become a destination for soccer fans in America, and we are thrilled to bring to their platforms the unique soccer experience that only the USL provides,” said USL CEO Alec Papadakis. “We are entering a new, exciting phase, both on and off the field, and we look forward to working with CBS Sports over the next four years to take our leagues and our game to new heights.”
This collaboration is expected to take the USL and the sport itself to new heights in terms of visibility and popularity over the next four years.
Front Office Sports reported that CBS Sports’ interest in acquiring more soccer rights grew after the successful launch of Golazo Network and increased viewership for its coverage of the U.S. Open Cup, aided by star player Lionel Messi and Inter Miami.
The appeal of USL rights soared, especially considering that the previous media deal with ESPN showcased more games per season but failed to bring the leagues to network television on ABC.
Looking ahead, the 2023 USL Championship Final is set to be an exciting matchup between Charleston Battery and Phoenix Rising, scheduled for Sunday at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN2.
