XFL inks major deal with ESPN and Disney

The X-Treme Football League (XFL) has announced a new partnership with ESPN and The Walt Disney Company. The new five-year deal will see both networks gain broadcasting rights for the XFL from 2023 to 2027. The deal will also see both network’s digital mediums, Disney+ and ESPN+, broadcast the XFL games.

Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson, former WWE star and XFL co-owner, commented:

“This is a definitive moment for the XFL and the beginning of an incredible, long-term partnership for the league, building on my longstanding, very successful legacy relationship I’ve had with Disney throughout my career.

“We’re excited to be working with global visionaries that are aligned with the XFL’s values, are true team players and share our ambitious goals to grow the XFL as a global sports and entertainment business. Through the combined power of Disney, ESPN and the XFL, together we will create a new powerhouse on the sports calendar and bring a dynamic game of football to fans everywhere. Time to ball out.”

Dany Garcia, Co-owner and Chairwoman of XFL, added:

“Without question, we have long admired Disney’s distinct ability to engage an expansive consumer fanbase across verticals, while also maintaining a deeply authentic, nuanced and heartfelt approach to storytelling much like our own.

“To find a partner that honours our foundation and to be able to root our vision of unwavering passion, accessibility and the future of football with Disney as our home, is a dream come true. We are extraordinarily excited to explore the endless possibilities of this partnership – today is surely just the beginning.”

The XFL is set to get underway from February 18, 2023, and will see a total of 40 league games, two playoffs and one championship game.