The evolving soccer landscape in the United States continues to gain momentum, with the six-a-side Baller League securing a broadcast deal with CBS Sports ahead of its inaugural US competition. The agreement, announced earlier this week, will see every game streamed live on CBS Sports Golazo Network, the network’s 24/7 streaming channel, and also available on popular platforms like Twitch, YouTube, and Kick.
The US league is slated to begin in March, though a specific launch date is still forthcoming. The competition will follow a format of ten matchdays culminating in a post-season playoff finale. This partnership marks a significant step for Baller League, which aims to redefine the soccer experience in America by blending traditional sport with modern culture and influencer engagement.
Baller League isn’t relying solely on established soccer stars. The US edition will feature a unique mix of talent, including prominent social media influencers like IShowSpeed and xQc, alongside sporting icons such as sprinting legend Usain Bolt and Brazilian soccer star Ronaldinho. This strategy reflects the league’s ambition to attract a broader audience beyond traditional soccer fans.
CBS Sports’ involvement extends beyond simply broadcasting the games. The network, already a major player in US soccer coverage with rights to UEFA Champions League, Europa League, and the UEFA Super Cup, sees Baller League as a complementary addition to its portfolio. The deal aligns with CBS’s strategy of making soccer accessible to fans through a variety of platforms, including its flagship CBS network, CBS Sports Network, Paramount+, and now, CBS Sports Golazo Network.
This isn’t Baller League’s first foray into broadcast partnerships. The league launched in Germany in 2024 and quickly followed with a UK competition, securing deals with Sky Sports and its Now streaming service to broadcast every game live in that market. The US deal, like its UK counterpart, is non-exclusive, allowing fans to also catch matches on the league’s own Twitch, YouTube, and X channels. This multi-platform approach underscores Baller League’s commitment to reaching fans wherever they consume content.
Interestingly, Baller League is strategically shifting its focus from Germany to the US, halting its German competition to concentrate resources on building a strong presence in the American market. This decision highlights the perceived potential of the US as a key growth area for the league, driven by a growing soccer fanbase and a receptive audience for innovative sports entertainment.
Felix Starck, Chief Executive of Baller League International, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “This agreement with CBS Sports is a major moment for Baller League as we continue to redefine what soccer can mean in America.” He further emphasized the league’s vision, adding, “We’re building something that lives where sport meets culture – uniting creators, players, and fans in new ways. We cannot wait to bring this next chapter of Baller League to life on CBS Sports.”
The deal with CBS is particularly noteworthy as it will broadcast the games for free, further expanding access to the league’s content. This accessibility, combined with the unique blend of athletes and influencers, positions Baller League to potentially capture a significant share of the US sports entertainment market. The league’s success will likely hinge on its ability to deliver a compelling product that resonates with both traditional soccer fans and a younger, digitally-native audience.
CBS Sports has demonstrably revolutionized the viewing experience for soccer in the US, and Ged Tarpey of Baller League acknowledged this, expressing excitement about partnering with a network that has become a gateway to football in America. The league’s decision to align with CBS speaks volumes about its ambitions and its belief in the network’s ability to elevate its profile within the competitive US sports landscape.
As the March launch date approaches, anticipation is building for the debut of Baller League in the US. The combination of innovative format, high-profile participants, and a strategic broadcast partnership with CBS Sports suggests that this new league has the potential to make a significant impact on the American soccer scene. The league’s focus on creating a fusion of sport and culture could prove to be a winning formula, attracting a diverse audience and establishing a unique identity within the crowded sports market.
