DAZN Secures Exclusive Global Streaming Rights for 2029 Club World Cup 2026

DAZN has secured an exclusive option for global streaming rights to the 2029 men's Club World Cup, a move that deepens the broadcaster's partnership with FIFA and reshapes how fans will watch the expanded tournament.

The deal gives DAZN the inside track on the next edition of FIFA's 32-team competition, which debuted in the United States last year. It also buys FIFA valuable time to finalize plans for a tournament that remains a work in progress.

How DAZN Became FIFA's Go-To Streaming Partner

DAZN's relationship with FIFA goes back to the inaugural Club World Cup. When many linear broadcasters and other streamers declined to bid, DAZN stepped in with a $1bn offer for global rights.

That bid effectively bankrolled FIFA's $1bn prize fund, with Chelsea taking home about $114m as winners. The move was facilitated by Saudi Arabia's Surj Sports Investment group purchasing a 10% stake in DAZN, underscoring the growing influence of Gulf capital in global sports media.

Apple TV had earlier held talks with FIFA over a global streaming deal for 2025 but withdrew due to a disagreement over valuation. FIFA's subsequent attempt to sell rights regionally also foundered, leaving DAZN's late bid as the saving grace.

Why DAZN Is Doubling Down Despite Losses

DAZN is a loss-making business despite boasting more than 300 million subscribers. Its 2025 accounts showed operating losses increased from $772.9m to $939.8m over the previous 12 months.

Yet the company appears content to continue investing heavily in rights. The exclusive option for 2029 gives DAZN a strategic foothold in a competition FIFA designed as a major money spinner.

The value of the Club World Cup rights deal, or the point at which the option must be triggered, is not known. But the arrangement provides FIFA with breathing space before the second edition of the expanded tournament.

What This Means for Football Fans and the Streaming Market

For fans, DAZN's exclusive global rights mean the Club World Cup will be a streaming-first event. That could improve accessibility for viewers in markets where traditional broadcasters showed little interest.

But it also raises questions about subscription costs and whether DAZN can deliver a reliable experience at scale. The company's financial losses suggest it is prioritizing growth over short-term profitability.

The deal also intensifies competition among streamers for live sports rights. DAZN's aggressive stance contrasts with the caution shown by Apple and others, signaling that sports remain a key battleground in the streaming wars.

Key Takeaways from the DAZN-FIFA Deal

• DAZN holds an exclusive option for global streaming rights to the 2029 Club World Cup.
• The deal deepens DAZN's partnership with FIFA after its $1bn bid for the 2025 edition.
• Saudi Arabia's Surj Sports Investment group holds a 10% stake in DAZN.
• DAZN remains loss-making but continues to invest heavily in sports rights.
• FIFA gains breathing space to finalize plans for the 2029 tournament.

DAZN vs Traditional Broadcasters: A Shifting Landscape

The Club World Cup rights saga highlights a broader shift in how sports content is distributed. Traditional broadcasters are increasingly reluctant to pay premium prices for expanded competitions, creating openings for streamers.

DAZN's willingness to take on risk has made it a valuable partner for FIFA. But the company's long-term viability depends on converting subscribers into sustainable revenue.

What to Watch Next

The value of the 2029 deal and the trigger point for the option remain unknown. How DAZN monetizes the tournament—through subscriptions, advertising, or both—will be closely watched.

FIFA's ability to attract other partners for the 2029 edition will also be key. The governing body has designed the Club World Cup as a major revenue driver, but its success depends on broad distribution and fan engagement.

For now, DAZN's exclusive option cements its role as FIFA's streaming partner of choice. Whether that bet pays off will depend on the company's ability to balance ambitious rights spending with financial sustainability.

FAQ

The streaming landscape for football is evolving rapidly, with DAZN at the center of major rights deals. For a deeper look at how DAZN compares to traditional providers, see our DAZN Go vs Movistar Plus comparison.

DAZN's pricing strategy has also drawn attention, especially around LaLiga coverage. Our article on the DAZN LaLiga plan discount explains how fans can save 25% on football streaming.

For a comprehensive overview of DAZN's offerings, including plans and costs, read our DAZN pricing 2026 guide. It breaks down monthly versus annual costs and content lineup.

DAZN's growing portfolio of rights extends beyond football. The company's approach mirrors other streaming deals, such as DAZN acquiring Australia cricket rights, showing its appetite for diverse sports content.

Meanwhile, competitors are also making moves. Netflix recently secured exclusive rights to broadcast the 2030 World Cup in Spain, signaling that streaming platforms are increasingly vital for major tournaments.

As the streaming wars heat up, DAZN's exclusive option for the 2029 Club World Cup positions it as a key player in global sports broadcasting. Fans and industry watchers will be keen to see how this bet pays off.