Apple is reportedly close to inking a deal with FIFA, the governing body of international soccer, to secure exclusive streaming rights to a revamped version of the Club World Cup. This development marks a significant expansion of Apple’s sporting interests, which already include Major League Baseball coverage and the launch of the Apple Sports app earlier this year. The Club World Cup, as its name suggests, brings together the world’s top club teams, and a new version of the tournament is set to take place in the United States next year, featuring 32 entrants divided into eight groups of four teams.
The deal, which could be announced by the end of this month, would grant Apple exclusive streaming rights to the tournament, with plans to charge a special fee for viewers to access the content. This is similar to Apple’s existing MLS (Major League Soccer) coverage, which requires Apple TV+ subscribers to pay an additional $13 per month or $79 per season, while non-subscribers can access the streams for $15 per month or $99 per season.
The Club World Cup tournament is scheduled to take place from June 15 through July 13, and it is expected to feature a month-long format, marking a significant change from its traditional annual schedule. Starting in 2025, the tournament will adopt a new format, taking place every four years in the year preceding the regular soccer World Cup featuring national teams.
Apple’s interest in the Club World Cup aligns with its existing strategy of investing in sports content. The company has already made significant headway in the sports streaming space, including its partnership with Major League Baseball and the launch of the Apple Sports app. The Apple Sports app offers live sports scores, real-time stats, and other features, solidifying Apple’s position as a major player in the sports streaming market.
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Ted Lasso, an award-winning comedy series produced by Apple, also ties into the company’s sports content strategy. The show follows the story of an American college football coach who lands a job managing a soccer club in England, adding a touch of humor to Apple’s sports offerings.
The deal between Apple and FIFA highlights the growing importance of exclusive streaming rights in the sports world. As the global streaming market continues to expand, sports fans are increasingly seeking out exclusive content that can only be accessed through specific platforms. Apple’s deal with FIFA would provide viewers with exclusive access to the Club World Cup, cementing the company’s position as a major player in the sports streaming terrain.
In addition to expanding its sports offerings, Apple’s deal with FIFA could also have implications for its music streaming service, Apple Music. The company has reportedly renewed deals with major record labels, but an integrated sports and music streaming bundle has yet to be announced. A potential bundle could offer viewers a comprehensive entertainment package, combining Apple Music’s vast music library with exclusive sports content.
Apple’s reported deal with FIFA marks a significant expansion of its sporting interests, solidifying its position as a major player in the sports streaming market. As the company continues to invest in sports content, viewers can expect to see more exclusive deals and partnerships in the future, further enhancing Apple’s entertainment offerings.
