Disney+ is following the trend of streaming services offering live sports to viewers by announcing that it will be adding ESPN content before the end of the calendar year. The move is seen as a precursor to the launch of an enhanced standalone ESPN streaming service in the fall of 2025.
ESPN programming on Disney+ will be limited, but only a “modest” amount will be available, likely to drive subscribers to the paid ESPN option. This move aligns with a trend among streaming services like Amazon, Apple, and Max who have also invested in live sports programming to attract and retain subscribers.
Disney has also finalized an agreement with Fox Sports and Warner Bros. Discovery to launch a sports streaming service that will carry games from major sports leagues like the NFL, MLB, NBA, and NHL. Live sports are considered a key driver for subscribers to streaming services as they are seen as must-watch content that can engage viewers and encourage them to stay on the platform. Disney+ is positioning itself to capitalize on this trend by introducing ESPN content to its platform and setting the stage for a standalone ESPN streaming service in the future.
