Netflix has secured exclusive US broadcast rights to the 2027 and 2031 Women’s World Cup – raising concerns among fans following recent complaints about inaccurate live coverage.

The streaming giant confirmed the news on Friday after beating off competition to secure a deal for the next two editions of the women’s soccer festival, which previously aired in the US on Fox.

While the value is currently unclear, the deal is the most significant that FIFA has signed with a streaming service for a major tournament, with World Cups typically broadcast on free-to-air public channels to attract the largest audience to reach.

But a bigger concern for women’s soccer fans is the quality of coverage that could be offered when the world’s top nations compete in 2027 and 2031.

Netflix’s live coverage of last month’s controversial fight between Mike Tyson and Jake Paul was marred by technical issues. Millions of fans complained about a buffering stream, audio issues, and more.

A subscriber in Florida is even taking legal action against Netflix because of the constant disruptions and buffering, accusing the company of “breach of contract.”

The Spanish team celebrates victory over England during the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia and New Zealand 2023 final match between Spain and England at Stadium Australia

And after learning that the next two Women’s World Cups would also be broadcast on the platform, fans took to social media to voice their concerns.

One user commented: “Better tune in now to beat the inevitable buffering.”

Another fan quipped: “Surprised the announcement isn’t still buffering…”

While one joked: “Oh yeah. Because their boxing match went so well…’

Netflix is ​​investing heavily in live sports, and the streaming service will also broadcast two Christmas Day NFL games next week.

Addressing recent technical difficulties and providing adequate service for these games – which will pit the Chiefs against the Steelers and the Ravens against the Texans – would restore some confidence given the announcement of the Women’s World Cup.

The 32-team, 64-game tournament in 2027 will be played in Brazil from June 24 to July 25. The 2031 host has not yet been determined, but the United States is expected to apply.

Spain won the 2023 Women’s World Cup, held in Australia and New Zealand, after the United States won the previous two titles.

“I’ve seen the fan base for the FIFA Women’s World Cup grow tremendously – from the electric atmosphere in France in 2019 to the incredible energy in Australia and New Zealand in 2023,” said Bela Bajaria, Chief Content Officer of Netflix.

“Bringing this iconic tournament to Netflix isn’t just about streaming games – it’s about celebrating the players, culture and passion that are driving the rise of women’s sports around the world.”

FIFA has since released its own announcement calling the agreement “historic.”

“The historic deal will give U.S.-based fans unprecedented access to every game live and comprehensive coverage, including star-studded studio shows, in what will be an unprecedented celebration of the women’s game,” the FIFA statement said.

“The agreement spans Puerto Rico and covers all languages, with high-profile talent poised to appear in a doubleheader for both English- and Spanish-language broadcasts in the United States.”