The value of sports media rights worldwide has reached a record $65.8 billion in 2026, according to the SportBusiness Global Media Report. This figure represents an increase from $62.4 billion in 2024, defying industry concerns about slowing growth.
Major events such as the World Cup and new agreements for the NBA and UFC have contributed to this rise. The report projects the market to reach $66.3 billion by 2028.
Despite the overall growth, the report indicates that this increase is not evenly distributed. More money is flowing to the largest markets, sports, and competitions, with the US market alone accounting for 54% of media rights value in the top 10 markets. Football is the top driver, comprising 39% of the value generated by the top 10 sports.
Concerns remain for some leagues, with the collapse of TV deals in French football and struggles in Italian and Spanish leagues noted. The Independent Football Regulator's draft State of the Game report also highlighted uncertainty regarding the value of the next round of deals for English clubs.