Key facts
- Global sports media rights spend hit $67.34 billion in 2026.
- North America accounted for 52% of the global spend, with the US contributing $32.8 billion.
- Global sports rights spend is forecast to exceed $78 billion by 2030.
- The NBA's new 11-year deal is valued at $76 billion.
- The NFL's rights package is worth approximately $110 billion through 2033.
- Streaming platforms are projected to spend a record $14.2 billion on sports in 2026.
Global spending on sports media rights has reached a record $67.34 billion in 2026, defying concerns about a market bubble, according to reports. This figure represents a 9.6% increase year-over-year, with projections indicating continued growth to over $78 billion by 2030.
North America is the primary driver of this spending, accounting for 52% of the total, with the United States alone contributing $32.8 billion. Despite a shrinking traditional pay-TV base, leagues are leveraging their pricing power. Streaming platforms are set to spend a record $14.2 billion on sports rights in 2026.
Notable deals include the NBA's 11-year agreement worth $76 billion through 2035-36, and the NFL's package valued at approximately $110 billion through 2033. Amazon Prime Video emerged as the top global sports-rights spender in 2026, spending $3.8 billion. The WNBA's rights package has also seen significant growth, reaching $3.1 billion.