FIFA has made a significant announcement regarding the broadcast of the 2023 Women’s World Cup, reaching an unprecedented agreement with the European Broadcasting Union (EBU). This deal ensures that the tournament will be televised across 34 European countries, including the “Big Five” nations: France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom.
The agreement with the EBU resolves the recent dispute between FIFA and broadcasters in these key European markets, ensuring that fans in these countries will have access to the matches during the competition. The Women’s World Cup is set to take place in Australia and New Zealand from July to August.
Gianni Infantino, the President of FIFA, expressed his satisfaction with the expanded partnership with the EBU. He highlighted the inclusion of major markets and emphasized that the agreement would provide maximum exposure for the tournament. However, specific financial details of the deal were not disclosed.
Negotiations with broadcasters in the “Big Five” European countries had faced challenges, including lower offers for the broadcasting rights compared to the men’s World Cup. The time difference, with matches scheduled for early morning in Europe due to the tournament’s location, was also a factor. Nonetheless, Infantino prioritized ensuring comprehensive coverage of the Women’s World Cup and dismissed the time difference as an excuse.
This groundbreaking agreement between FIFA and the EBU marks a significant step in promoting women’s football and expanding the reach of the Women’s World Cup across Europe.