MLS partner the big loser with the 2025 Club World Cup

Apple TV has made significant strides in sports streaming, with the renowned Cupertino-based platform recently securing the broadcast rights to major competitions, including Major League Soccer (MLS).

However, despite its growing presence, Apple suffered a notable setback on Wednesday, losing the rights to the FIFA Club World Cup to DAZN.

Apple’s multi-million-dollar deal with MLS, worth $250 million over the next 10 seasons, was a game-changer, particularly in the United States, where sports events have drawn increasing attention. This partnership marked a turning point in sports broadcasting, with Apple also making a strategic investment to bring Lionel Messi to MLS.

Apple left high and dry with DAZN success

The Argentine star’s presence significantly boosted subscriptions to the MLS Season Pass over the past two seasons, with Messi earning a share of the new revenue generated by his influence.

One of Apple’s key ambitions was to secure the broadcast rights to the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, which will be held in the United States. After successfully partnering with MLS teams like the Seattle Sounders and Messi’s Inter Miami, Apple sought to expand its sports portfolio further by collaborating with FIFA.

Unfortunately, FIFA’s announcement dashed these plans, leaving Apple with only the 2025 MLS season and the Leagues Cup on its calendar.

Apple’s billion-dollar gamble did not yield the desired results. The New York Times had previously reported that Apple was willing to invest $1 billion to acquire the Club World Cup rights.

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Despite the money involved, according to outlets such as RMC, DAZN secured the rights with a €1 billion bid, a figure that convinced FIFA to shift its preference, despite earlier indications that Apple was a strong contender.

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