FIFA opens US bidding for 2030 World Cup media rights

FIFA is inviting bids for the 2030 World Cup’s media rights in the United States and Puerto Rico, with flexibility for television broadcasters and streaming services to compete separately or together. Romy Gai, the football governing body’s chief business officer, described the terms to Variety. The process opens competition for the rights; it does not award a broadcast contract.

Gai said the rights had not come up for bidding in about 15 years. He expects FIFA to earn more in the next negotiations, citing that gap and the growing value of sports to media companies.

What bidders can propose

FIFA will consider separate deals for linear television—channels that show programmes on a schedule—and internet streaming, as well as packages combining both, Gai said. A single company could handle all the rights, or companies could submit joint bids.

FIFA prefers to keep English- and Spanish-language rights together, but Gai said that condition is not mandatory. He also said streaming services could help the tournament reach new audiences.

Variety’s references to an additional tournament option conflict: its headline identifies a 2034 option, while an early passage says 2024. Another early passage also lists 2024 among past World Cup broadcasts.

How FIFA plans to choose

FIFA said it would seek a provider or providers able to deliver comprehensive, high-quality coverage, reach large audiences through new ways to watch and generate revenue for football.

Proposals are due by noon on November 19, according to Variety. The deadline’s time zone remains unspecified. Gai said he expected a range of proposals for FIFA to discuss.