Apple and FIFA close to TV rights deal for 2025 Club World Cup
Apple is reportedly close to reaching an agreement with FIFA, the world soccer governing body, regarding the broadcast rights for the new 2025 Club World Cup. As the New York Times reported on Monday, the deal with the U.S. tech giant could be announced as early as April.
FIFA did not comment on this when asked. However, it is unclear whether the agreement with Apple also includes free-to-air rights. If not, only Apple TV+ subscribers would be able to watch the 63 matches of the new tournament and seven matches for the finalists from June 15 to July 13 in the USA.
Twelve of the 32 teams from Europe are taking part in the new format. No Swiss clubs are taking part. In addition to FC Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund, the Champions League winners from 2021 to 2023, Chelsea FC, Real Madrid and Manchester City, as well as Paris Saint-Germain, Inter Milan, FC Porto and Benfica Lisbon are already taking part. The winner of the current season in the top flight will also receive a ticket. A maximum of two clubs per country are allowed to take part. (SDA)
