Dazn Expands Its FIFA Partnership with Exclusive 2029 Club World Cup Streaming Rights

Dazn is making headlines again, having secured exclusive global streaming rights for the men’s Club World Cup set for 2029. This move strengthens its ties with FIFA and underscores the streaming service’s growing influence in the world of football. The Saudi-backed company previously made a splash by investing $1 billion for the global rights to the 2025 tournament. This deal came after other broadcasters backed out, leaving FIFA in a tough spot. Dazn swooped in to support FIFA just ahead of the inaugural 32-team Club World Cup in the U.S. last year, playing a crucial role in bankrolling a hefty $1 billion prize pool. Despite boasting over 300 million subscribers, Dazn is still operating at a loss. Their financial reports revealed that operating losses climbed from $772.9 million to nearly $940 million in the last year. Yet, this doesn't seem to deter them from continuing to invest heavily in sports rights. While the precise value of the new deal for the 2029 tournament remains under wraps, it grants FIFA some breathing room as they prepare for the next iteration of this lucrative competition. However, planning for the event has encountered its share of hurdles, with no clear decisions made on venues or the format, despite discussions about expanding to 48 teams. The Club World Cup has faced setbacks, especially following the fallout from FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s controversial World Cup sell-off proposal. This led to tensions with the European Football Clubs (EFC), who expressed their disappointment in a letter regarding delayed payments of $250 million in solidarity funds owed to clubs since the first competition concluded. Relations between FIFA and the EFC seem to have improved since Infantino's proposal was withdrawn. Yet, they are still navigating the complex details of a joint venture to manage the Club World Cup’s commercial side, which could be postponed until after the upcoming FIFA presidential election. Looking ahead, Morocco is emerging as a strong contender to host the 2029 tournament, especially if Infantino is re-elected, given his rapport with King Mohammed VI. The recent decision to award the first women’s Club World Cup to the U.S. has only bolstered Morocco’s position, as the U.S. was also in the running for 2029. There’s also speculation about a joint hosting arrangement with Spain, while Portugal, another co-host for the 2030 World Cup, appears hesitant about taking on hosting duties.