Netflix Expands into Live Sports with NFL and WWE Deals

The streaming giant pivots to live sports with landmark agreements, aiming to attract global audiences and advertisers.

Netflix broadcast two NFL Christmas Day games in 2024, drawing 30 million viewers per game and reaching audiences in 218 countries and territories.
The NFL partnership marks Netflix's entry into live sports, leveraging its global reach of 283 million subscribers to expand its content offerings.
Netflix signed a $5 billion, 10-year deal with WWE to stream events like 'Monday Night Raw,' which debuted in January 2025 with 4.9 million global viewers.
The shift to live sports aligns with Netflix's advertising-supported model, as live events attract large audiences and generate significant ad revenue opportunities.
By acquiring sports content, Netflix aims to create 'appointment TV' moments and strengthen its position in the competitive streaming market.