The Rising Costs of Soccer Fans in the Streaming Age

Looking to catch all the soccer action year-round? Get ready to shell out nearly $900. The cost of being a dedicated soccer fan has definitely gone up in recent years.

Back in 2018, Canadians had access to MLS, the Champions League, and some of the top European men’s leagues through DAZN for $20 a month or $150 a year. The German Bundesliga rights were held by Sportsnet at that time.

Fast forward to today, and the same package will set you back almost $900 annually. The reason for this significant increase? Well, it’s all about the competition for streaming rights. Legacy broadcasters like Sportsnet and TSN, along with new platforms such as DAZN, Fubo, and Apple TV, are all vying for these rights, which drives up the costs for consumers.

For instance, Fubo came to Canada in 2021 and snagged the English Premier League rights in 2022, offering subscriptions for $100 a year. Now, with channels like EPL, La Liga, and Ligue 1, Fubo’s basic subscription costs close to $300 annually. On the other hand, DAZN’s basic package, which includes the Bundesliga and UEFA competitions, runs nearly $250 per year.

But fear not, fans have found ways to cope with these rising costs. Some share passwords to split expenses, while others head to pubs to catch the games. Paris Saint-Germain fan, Lauren Maharaj, shared that she watches matches at pubs with fellow fans to make the most of the experience without breaking the bank.

Recently, DAZN and Fubo struck a partnership that allows subscribers to access sports and competitions from each other’s platforms for a lower combined cost. This collaboration offers fans a more cost-effective way to enjoy a wider variety of games.

And apart from sharing passwords, many fans have turned to creative ways to save while watching their favorite teams. Whether it’s catching games at a local pub or finding alternative streaming services, soccer enthusiasts are finding ways to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of sports broadcast.

In the end, the rising costs and changing landscape of sports viewing may be challenging, but the love for the game keeps fans engaged, no matter what hurdles come their way. So, if you’re a die-hard soccer fan, get ready to dig a little deeper into your pockets to catch all the action throughout the year.