Disney+ coverage of March Madness in Europe and South Africa

Disney+ is expanding its sports coverage by taking on the rights to stream the iconic March Madness NCAA National Championship tournaments in Europe and South Africa. This move marks the first time Disney has offered live coverage of these tournaments in these regions.

For fans in the EMEA region, which includes Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, Disney+ will broadcast all 134 games from both the men’s and women’s tournaments. While the events will be available on Disney+ throughout Europe, with the exception of the Netherlands, South Africa will also have select games broadcast on ESPN live channels and available to stream on Disney+.

This new development builds on Disney’s existing international coverage of March Madness in the Philippines, Australia, and New Zealand. Thanks to a lucrative deal worth $920 million, Disney holds the global non-US rights for both the men’s and women’s tournaments until 2031-32.

While ESPN has previously handled international March Madness coverage through various licensing agreements, this marks the first time that Disney+ itself will directly offer the coverage in these new markets. This move highlights a significant increase in visibility for the NCAA’s premier basketball tournaments.

With the upcoming tournaments boasting a talented class of NBA prospects, interest in college basketball is at an all-time high. The men’s tournament kicks off on March 17, culminating in the national championship game on April 6, while the women’s tournament starts on March 18 and wraps up on April 5.

Diego Londono, Disney’s senior vice president for networks and sports in the EMEA region, expressed excitement about the partnership, stating, “Bringing March Madness to Disney+ customers across Europe reflects the ongoing collaboration between ESPN and the NCAA, and the commitment both organizations share to grow college basketball internationally. ESPN’s extensive experience in showcasing championship moments will help us promote greater appreciation for collegiate athletics, and we’re thrilled to bring this exciting content to a wider audience.”