ESPN forced to turn to NFL for World Cup after 'downsizing' decision

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The SoFi stadium will be host to eight World Cup matches -Credithoto by Patrick T. Fallon / AFP via Getty Images


ESPN is utilizing the NFL Network studios for their World Cup coverage this summer, capitalizing on their recent acquisition of the network. On April 1, ESPN officially completed the takeover of NFL Network in a deal valued at approximately $3 billion, bringing some of the biggest analysts, including Ian Rapoport and Adam Schefter, from rival organizations into the same fold.

The acquisition encompasses not just NFL Network itself, but all of its programming, including NFL Fantasy, along with the rights to distribute NFL RedZone across ESPN's platforms.

Throughout the summer, ESPN has moved in to leverage the NFL Network's studios, located across from SoFi Stadium — one of 16 venues being utilized for the World Cup.

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The move follows ESPN having scaled back their Los Angeles operations and transitioning to smaller studios prior to the NFL Network acquisition, while shifting their city presence toward their Connecticut headquarters on the East Coast.

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Ian Rapoport was included in the ESPN acquisition -Credit:2025 Kevin Sabitus

The NFL Network purchase has since rekindled the need for a Los Angeles studio base, with ESPN now operating out of the NFL Network building in the city for their ongoing World Cup broadcasts, reports the Mirror US.

Los Angeles' SoFi Stadium is set to host eight matches at this year's World Cup, and is also scheduled to stage this year's Super Bowl.

The 2026 season will mark the first full campaign since ESPN and NFL Network's merger, with fans eagerly anticipating what changes will unfold throughout the year.

The NFL Network broadcasts numerous popular programs, including during the offseason when activity in the sport is minimal - particularly throughout the summer months.

ESPN's takeover of the NFL Network, and utilization of their facilities, may have rescued it though - as its future had reportedly been uncertain.

The bulk of ESPN's operations are based on the East Coast, but the World Cup and Super Bowl could ensure the facilities stay operational for at least another year.

ESPN is anticipated to implement numerous modifications in the 2026 season, partly because its new slate of games, along with 'Monday Night Football', is expected to include international contests, scheduled to kick off on Sunday morning.

The NFL will be staging up to nine international games in 2026, with matchups in London, Paris, Madrid, Berlin, Rio, Mexico City and Melbourne.

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