ESPN and Disney announced the expansion of ESPN on Disney+ across 53 countries and territories in Europe and select Asia-Pacific markets, significantly broadening the platform’s global reach.
With the launch, ESPN content on Disney+ is now available in approximately 100 markets worldwide. The rollout includes Europe and select Asia-Pacific countries such as Japan, Korea, Singapore, Taiwan, and Hong Kong, where subscribers will gain access to a curated selection of English-language ESPN programming.
The offering provides Disney+ subscribers with access to live sporting events, studio shows, original content, and documentaries alongside general entertainment and family programming within a single platform. The content lineup will expand over time to include thousands of live events annually.
Programming will include major U.S. sports leagues such as the NBA and NHL beginning with the 2026–27 season, along with college sports including NCAA March Madness, college football, and bowl games. Additional content includes the Little League World Series and events featuring the Savannah Bananas.
Subscribers will also have access to ESPN’s 30 for 30 documentary series, a library of original films, and studio programming such as ESPN FC. The expansion builds on Disney+’s existing sports offerings in Europe, which include the UEFA Women’s Champions League, LALIGA in the UK and Ireland, and other major European football competitions.
The move reflects ESPN’s broader strategy to extend its global footprint through streaming, complementing its network of 50 linear channels that reach audiences across more than 130 countries and territories. ESPN also maintains a leading position in digital sports media, with an average of 517 million unique users per month.
KEY QUOTES:
“Sports and live events are an essential part of our Disney+ content library, and we’re excited to build on the success we’ve already had with sports fans, as we bring more of ESPN to Disney+ subscribers in Europe and APAC. This launch adds to our growing portfolio of local sports rights around the world.”
Alisa Bowen, President, Disney+
“This expansion marks an exciting next step for ESPN and Disney+ in our commitment to sports fans. ESPN has a longstanding tradition of delivering world-class content to sports fans, and the continued growth on Disney+ allows us to extend our reach and provide greater access and deeper connections with fans everywhere.”
Freddy Rolón, Head of Global Sports & Talent Office, ESPN
