Netflix pays NFL millions to stream Christmas games and achieves resounding success

Netflix, known for being a pioneer in streaming content, has taken a strategic step by venturing into live sports broadcasting. The platform closed a multi-million dollar deal with the NFL to broadcast two of the Christmas games each season for three years, marking a milestone in its entertainment offering.

The cost of the agreement with the NFL
In May 2023, Netflix surprised the world by securing the rights to broadcast these events, paying $150 million for the three-year agreement. This amount, although high, represents a strategic move to compete in the growing live sports broadcast market.

A global and multilingual approach
The agreement allows the games to be accessible to Netflix's more than 282 million subscribers in more than 190 countries, with broadcasts available in five languages: English, Spanish, French, German and Portuguese.

The expansion into sports seeks to diversify the platform's content and attract new audiences interested in live events, strengthening its position against competitors such as Amazon and Apple TV, who have already ventured into sports broadcasts.

Record audience at Christmas 2024
Netflix's debut with the game between the Las Vegas Raiders and the Kansas City Chiefs, held on December 25, 2024, was a resounding success.

With an average audience of 29.48 million viewers, the game became the most watched of that day, demonstrating the enormous potential of sports broadcasts on the platform.

The impact on the streaming market
This move by Netflix highlights an emerging trend: the attractiveness of live sporting events for streaming platforms. By including sports in its catalog, Netflix seeks not only to retain its current audience, but also to attract new subscribers who value access to events in real time.

The future of sports streaming?
The success of this first foray hints at a promising future for Netflix in the world of sports. While the platform is entering a competitive market, the record audience numbers suggest that live sports could become a new source of revenue and relevance in the streaming ecosystem.

Netflix has made it clear that its ambition has no limits, and its partnership with the NFL could redefine how sports fans enjoy their favorite games in the digital age.