Exclusive Agreement Through 2031 Season
ESPN has clinched a significant six-year deal worth $1.3 billion annually to maintain exclusive broadcasting rights for the 12-team College Football Playoff until the 2031 season, according to sources familiar with the agreement.
Details of the Deal
The agreement, yet to be finalized, hinges on resolving remaining issues concerning the playoff format and revenue distribution. The current contract, which originally ran through the 2025-26 season, required ESPN to pay the CFP $608 million for seven games each year. With the playoff expanding to 12 teams this season, the total value of the deal is anticipated to escalate to accommodate the rise in the number of games to 11 annually.
Network Negotiations
Various television networks, including Fox, NBC, Warner Bros. Discovery, and streaming platforms, expressed interest in partnering with the CFP. However, discussions among conference commissioners ultimately led to ESPN retaining its exclusive rights, although there is a possibility that the network may sublicense some playoff games to other broadcasters.
CFP Perspective
CFP Executive Director Bill Hancock remarked to the AP that negotiations are ongoing, indicating that the network and organizers are working through the final details of the deal. The decision to continue the partnership with ESPN marks a significant move for the college football postseason landscape.
