October 29 – The current women’s European champions, England will remain on free-to-air television after ITV renewed its agreement with the English Football Association. The FA described the contract as a “record deal” without announcing any financials.
ITV has been a big supporter of the Lionesses having broadcast their matches since 2021. The new deal will see the platform keep the team on their airwaves until at least 2029. With the previous deal up at the end of this season both parties were keen to lock in a team that grows in popularity.
With qualifying for the FIFA World Cup in 2027 and the UEFA Women’s Euros in 2029 upcoming, ITV will show all the qualifiers exclusively on home shores, in addition to the UEFA Nations League, and all international friendlies.
Niall Sloane, ITV director of sport, said: “We are delighted to continue our relationship with The FA and the England Women’s National Team. This is an exciting time for the Lionesses’ and we are proud to show our support by showcasing the matches free to air on ITV.”
On the other side of the negotiating table, James Gray, the FA’s commercial director, said: “ITV have given the Lionesses brilliant backing since 2021, overseeing a truly historic period for the team and the whole of the women’s game. This record deal shows our shared commitment to grow the team’s profile even further and give them the best possible platform to continue to inspire the nation.”
The number #2 ranked team in FIFA’s rankings has endured a rocky 2024 losing to both Germany and France, while making uncertain progress to defending the European crown in Switzerland next summer. The draw for the tournament will be held on December 16, and ITV will be hoping for a repeat of 2021, when a full England team won a first major trophy since the men’s team in 1996.
Contact the writer of this story, Nick Webster, at moc.l1734880050labto1734880050ofdlr1734880050owedi1734880050sni@o1734880050fni1734880050