Kayo Sports and Foxtel have renewed their long-standing distribution deal with ESPN, extending a partnership that has spanned more than two decades.
The new multi-year agreement will see subscribers continue to access live sports and programming on ESPN and ESPN2, including the NBA, NFL, MLB, UFC, WNBA and NHL. The deal consolidates ESPN’s US sports coverage with FOX SPORTS Australia’s portfolio of more than 50 sports, available on both Kayo and Foxtel platforms.
Under the new terms, Foxtel Business will become the exclusive commercial distributor of ESPN in Australia, including for licensed venues, for the first time. Foxtel Media will also continue to provide ESPN with advertising opportunities on Kayo Sports.
Foxtel Group CEO Patrick Delany said the renewal reinforced the company’s position in the market: “We have enjoyed a wonderful, world-leading relationship with ESPN that spans more than two decades – a remarkable achievement in the dynamic world of media. This renewal combines ESPN’s premium coverage of the best US sports with our unrivalled portfolio, including the AFL, NRL and cricket, cementing Kayo Sports and Foxtel as the ultimate destination for Australian sports fans.
“This agreement not only continues our relationship with ESPN but confirms our commitment to offering sports fans Australia’s most diverse, dynamic, and comprehensive sports experience.”
Kylie Watson-Wheeler, senior vice president and managing director of The Walt Disney Company Australia and New Zealand, and head of ESPN Asia-Pacific, added: “Our relationship with Foxtel is one we value immensely at ESPN and we are thrilled that Foxtel and Kayo Sports will remain a part of the ESPN ecosystem in Australia.
“ESPN now reaches millions of Australians and demand is growing for our premium offering as the ‘Home for Hoops’ and the best of US sport, plus locally led coverage and studio shows. We’re thrilled to serve sports fans anytime, anywhere in this market.”
ESPN broadcasts thousands of hours of live sports each year, including the NBA Finals, NFL Super Bowl, MLB World Series, NCAA March Madness, NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs, and FIBA tournaments. Studio shows such as SportsCenter, The Pat McAfee Show, NBA Today and First Take remain part of its programming, alongside original content like the 30 for 30 documentary series.
The extension also ensures continued UFC coverage, with ESPN’s UFC Fight Night programming complementing Kayo Sports and Foxtel’s pay-per-view events and Main Event UFC channel.
ESPN is available in HD on Kayo Sports, and to Foxtel Sports package subscribers on channels 579, 509, 580 and 510.