YOUTUBE is set to host a major sports event for free later this year in a global streaming exclusive.
NFL fans will be able to stream a week 1 game on the platform without paying a penny.
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The game takes place in Sao Paulo, Brazil on September 5 to kick off the 2025 International Games.
It marks the first NFL fixture to be offered for free in its entirety on the video streaming site.
The Los Angeles Chargers will take on an opponent to be announced later today when the full 2025 schedule is revealed.
YouTube and YouTube TV have served as the home of NFL Sunday Ticket since the start of the 2023 season for US viewers.
“Last year, people spent over 350 million hours watching official NFL content on YouTube, so it’s both fitting and thrilling to continue to build our relationship with our partners at the NFL,” said Mary Ellen Coe, chief business officer, YouTube.
“Streaming the Friday night game to fans for free around the world will mark YouTube’s first time as a live NFL broadcaster – and we’ll do it in a way that only YouTube can, with an interactive viewing experience and creators right at the center of the experience.”
As part of a multi-year deal, YouTube will also air the annual celebrity Super Bowl Flag Football game featuring creators and musical artists.
“We are excited to expand our relationship with YouTube to bring this year’s Brazil game to a worldwide audience,” said Hans Schroeder, NFL’s executive vice president of media distribution.
“YouTube and YouTube TV have been incredible partners of the NFL for several years and boast an immense global reach, and we look forward to Week 1 in São Paulo.”
MORE FREE SPORT
Elsewhere, there’s more joy for sports fans in the UK.
Virgin Media recently confirmed that a pop-up channel is coming to screens showing a trio of major football games.
This season’s Uefa Finals will be available for free on a special TNT Sports channel.
It starts with the Uefa Europa League final face-off between Manchester United and Spurs on May 21.
Then on May 28 it’s the Uefa Conference League final with Chelsea taking on Real Betis.
And finally, Inter Milan and PSG battle it out for the Uefa Champions League trophy on May 31.
