This fall, ESPN will debut its first direct-to-consumer streaming service, providing comprehensive access to its linear networks. The service, simply named ESPN, will offer two subscription tiers: an unlimited plan and a select plan.
The unlimited plan, priced at $29.99 monthly or $299.99 annually, grants access to all ESPN networks, including ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, SEC Network, ACC Network, ESPNEWS, ESPN Deportes, and “ESPN on ABC,” along with ESPN+, ESPN3, SEC Network+, and ACC Network Extra. This plan includes over 47,000 live events yearly, plus studio shows, replays, and original content.
A more affordable select plan, costing $11.99 monthly or $119.99 annually, offers content currently available on ESPN+. This encompasses over 32,000 live events annually, exclusive studio shows, and a library of on-demand and original programming.
Both plans will be accessible via a revamped ESPN App, featuring new functionalities to enhance user experience across mobile and connected TV devices. Bundling options with Disney+ and Hulu will also be available. The ESPN unlimited bundle will cost $35.99 per month with ads or $44.99 per month without ads. A launch promotion offers the bundle for $29.99 per month for the first year with ads on Disney+ and Hulu.
Existing ESPN+ subscribers will be automatically transferred to the new ESPN service at the appropriate tier. Users with the Disney bundle including ESPN+ will receive the ESPN select bundle. “We are providing everything ESPN has to offer directly to fans and all in one place,” said Jimmy Pitaro, ESPN Chairman. “As we thought about the name, we kept returning to the fact that, across every generation, ESPN is the most trusted, loved and recognized name in sports, and that we should keep it simple and double down on the power of ESPN. Our straightforward approach to name and pricing will help fans cut through the clutter, and provide them compelling options to access all our content within the enhanced ESPN App. It will be the ultimate sports destination for personalized experiences and features, and, on top of that, fans will be able to choose to bundle ESPN with the industry-leading Disney+ and Hulu streaming services.”
Further details, including the official launch date, are anticipated later this summer. ESPN content will remain available through traditional pay TV providers.