MLS has finally landed its long desired over the air US TV contract. NBC will broadcast two regular season games and two playoff games each of the next three seasons. In addition, the network will air two US national team games.
The majority of games will be pushed to the cable channel currently known as Versus (and formally as Outdoor Life). Re-branded as NBC Sports Network in January, the channel will broadcast 38 games, replacing the coverage currently on Fox Soccer Network.
Canadian TV coverage is not affected.
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Versus is the current home of the NHL in the United States. Although controversial when that deal was first signed, most hockey fans have grown to appreciate the effort Versus has made to promote the NHL. Without larger American TV products such as the NFL, Versus give the NHL its full marketing push. MLS fans will hope that the same effort will be made towards soccer. Production values are also first rate and will likely represent a step up in quality from what FSC is capable of providing.
Having games on NBC may further legitimize the product in the eyes of sponsors.
The financial details of the deal are unknown, but you can expect any right’s fees paid will be minimal.