YouTube and the National Football League have come to a multiyear agreement that will see YouTube distribute the league’s “Sunday Ticket” package of out-of-market Sunday afternoon games on YouTube TV and YouTube Primetime Channels.
The package had been on DirecTV since 1994, and the satellite provider has paid $1.5 billion per year on an eight-year contract that expires at the end of this season. The NFL was reportedly seeking $2.5 billion per season for the package.
“For a number of years we have been focused on increased digital distribution of our games and this partnership is yet another example of us looking towards the future and building the next generation of NFL fans,” NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said in a statement.
Amazon, Apple and ESPN also expressed interest in the “Sunday Ticket” package.
“As the ways fans enjoy NFL football evolve in a changing media landscape, partnerships with innovators like YouTube will ensure that more games are available to more fans,” New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft said. “This partnership will grow our game for future generations and allow them to follow their favorite sport.”
“Through this expanded partnership with the NFL, viewers will now also be able to experience the game they love in compelling and innovative ways through YouTube TV or YouTube Primetime Channels,” YouTube CEO Susan Wojcicki said in a statement. “We’re excited to continue our work with the NFL to make YouTube a great place for sports lovers everywhere.”