Netflix has made a major move into the live sports streaming market, securing exclusive US streaming rights for the 2027 and 2031 FIFA Women's World Cup. The deal, announced today, marks a significant expansion of the streaming giant's sports offerings and further cements its position as a major player in the industry.

The Women's World Cup, one of the most prestigious and highly anticipated sporting events in the world, will be streamed exclusively on Netflix in the US, with both English- and Spanish-language broadcasts available. The streamer has also committed to producing additional coverage, including studio shows and documentary programming, to supplement the live matches.

The 2027 edition of the tournament is set to take place in Brazil, while the host nation for the 2031 event has yet to be determined. The deal is a significant coup for Netflix, which has been steadily building its sports portfolio with one-off events like the Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson fight and a pair of NFL games set to stream on Christmas Day.

However, the Women's World Cup represents a much more ambitious undertaking, with the tournament spanning a month of matches featuring 32 national teams. The event will put Netflix's fledgling live infrastructure to the test, but the company is confident in its ability to deliver a high-quality viewing experience to its subscribers.

The move is part of a broader trend in the streaming industry, with services like Apple, Amazon, and others investing heavily in live events and sports programming. The shift is driven in part by the growing demand for live content, as well as the desire to attract new subscribers and retain existing ones.

For Netflix, the deal is a significant step into the sports streaming market, where it will compete with established players like ESPN and Fox Sports. However, the company's deep pockets and commitment to producing high-quality content make it a formidable competitor in the space.

The deal is also a major win for women's football, which has seen significant growth in popularity in recent years. The exposure and attention generated by the Women's World Cup will undoubtedly help to further boost the sport's profile and attract new fans.

As the streaming landscape continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Netflix's foray into live sports shapes the industry as a whole. One thing is certain, however: with its latest move, Netflix has cemented its position as a major player in the sports streaming market.