ESPN is rolling out a direct-to-consumer service later this month, introducing two subscription plans and a revamped ESPN app designed to bring fans closer to live sports, studio programming, and on-demand content. The launch will bring ESPN networks and related services directly to viewers starting August 21, with pricing and perks laid out for both new and existing subscribers.
New streaming plan details
– ESPN Unlimited Plan: Access all ESPN networks (ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, ESPNEWS, ESPN Deportes, SEC Network, ACC Network) plus ESPN on ABC, ESPN+, ESPN3, SECN+, and ACCNX. Subscribers will see about 47,000 live events per year, plus on-demand replays, studio shows, original programming, and more. Price is $29.99 per month or $299.99 per year.
– ESPN Select Plan: Access all content available on ESPN+ (with more than 32,000 live sports events annually, plus a robust library of exclusive studio shows, on-demand replays, and original content). Price is $11.99 per month or $119.99 per year.
– A bundle option with Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN is available at $29.99 per month for the first 12 months (ads on Disney+ and Hulu).
A few content differences between plans
– Unlimited Plan subscribers gain access to the full set of ESPN networks, including high-profile events in football, basketball, hockey, tennis, golf, and more, along with post-season and premium coverage.
– Select Plan subscribers get access primarily to ESPN+, with the emphasis on top-tier soccer, PGA Tour events, NHL, UFC, and certain college sports and other leagues.
– Both plans will include advertising during live events and studio shows. Bundles with Disney+ and Hulu can be chosen with or without ads on those platforms.
New app plan details
– The ESPN direct-to-consumer experience is integrated into the existing ESPN app, with enhancements such as game statistics, betting information, fantasy sports, commerce, multiview options, and a personalized SportsCenter For You. These features will be available to all fans, whether subscribing directly to the DTC service or through a pay-TV bundle.
– If you already use the ESPN App, there’s no need to download a separate app; all new features will appear within the current app across mobile and connected TV devices.
Impact on existing plans
– ESPN+ subscribers will transition to the ESPN Select Plan as part of the new structure.
– Existing Disney+/Hulu/ESPN+ bundle subscribers will become Disney+/Hulu/ESPN+ Select bundle subscribers, continuing to access content through the ESPN and Disney+ apps.
– ESPN will continue to be distributed through pay-TV providers, with pay-TV subscribers gaining access to the enhanced ESPN App features via their subscriptions.
Next steps and future developments
– ESPN has announced two major deals that will expand its media footprint and enhance the fan experience. One involves the NFL taking a 10% equity stake in ESPN’s all-sports network as ESPN acquires the NFL Network and other NFL media assets, including linear rights to RedZone. The deal will merge the NFL fantasy product into ESPN’s platform, making ESPN Fantasy Football the official NFL fantasy product, while the NFL Network remains available on pay-TV.
– A separate agreement with World Wrestling Entertainment will bring WrestleMania and other premium WWE events to ESPN’s direct-to-consumer service starting in 2026, including multi-night events like WrestleMania and SummerSlam, as well as Royal Rumble, Survivor Series, and Money in the Bank.
Blackouts to note
– Five NFL games on August 23 will fall within blackout zones. Viewers in those zones can watch the games via their local station, with the maps indicating the affected areas.
What this means for fans
– The new ESPN direct-to-consumer service aims to deliver a more cohesive, customizable sports experience directly to viewers, with a strong emphasis on live events, integrated stats and fantasy tools, and a streamlined path to premium content. The tiered plans provide options for casual viewers (Select) and hardcore fans (Unlimited), while ongoing bundles and existing pay-TV access help retain familiar viewing habits.
Summary and outlook
– ESPN’s DTC launch positions the network to blend traditional live sports with modern streaming features and broader access to content, including marquee NFL and WWE programming in future years. The approach offers flexibility through two priced plans and a unified ESPN app experience, while the strategic partnerships point toward deeper integration of sports media and fantasy experiences. For fans, this could translate into a more centralized, feature-rich way to watch, follow, and engage with sports across devices.
If you’d like, I can add a concise recap for social media or craft a closing note highlighting what subscribers should do next to prepare for the August 21 launch. I can also provide a short, positive takeaway paragraph to accompany the piece.