Roku launches dedicated free sports channel
Roku has introduced a new, dedicated Sports Channel within The Roku Channel, offering free access to live sports content. This channel consolidates all the sports programming Roku currently licenses, targeting viewers who prefer free content amidst rising subscription costs. The Roku Sports Channel will be available starting August 12, and it differs from the Sports section Roku launched in 2022, which aggregated live events from various services.
Roku's new sports channel is part of a broader update that includes 17 new free channels across various genres, reinforcing Roku's role as a key provider of free streaming content. To boost user engagement, Roku has also introduced features like an NFL content hub. Joe Franzetta, head of sports for Roku Media, highlighted the popularity of sports on Roku, emphasizing the new channel's role in enhancing the viewing experience with easy access to premium sports content.
Remember that Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ Prices will Increase in October 2024.
Joe Franzetta, head of sports for Roku Media, described the Roku Sports Channel as a curated, always-on channel that offers free access to a wide variety of premium sports content. He highlighted the popularity of sports on The Roku Channel and expressed excitement about making it easier for audiences to enjoy Roku's sports programming through the new channel.
The Roku Sports Channel won't match the depth of ESPN but will feature sports content that Roku owns or licenses, including live MLB games, The Rich Eisen Show, Formula E races, NBA G League games, and Roku's sports originals. It will also include the WNBA documentary "Renee Montgomery: A Radical Act." Available only in the U.S., the channel will be accessible on any Roku device without requiring a subscription.
Is Live sports on Roku Free?
While Roku offers some free live sports options through The Roku Channel, most major sports like the NFL, NBA, MLB, and NHL require a paid subscription to services like ESPN+, Fubo, Hulu + Live TV, or YouTube TV. Free sports channels on Roku typically feature niche sports rather than major leagues. Although Roku has partnered with CBS to stream 11 Formula E races for free starting in January 2024, the majority of live sports content on Roku requires a subscription. Free options are mostly limited to trial periods of paid services.
How much does Roku Sports Channels Cost?
Roku offers both subscription-based and free sports channels, with popular options like ESPN+ ($4.99/month), fuboTV ($54.99/month), Hulu + Live TV ($76.99/month), and Sling TV ($20/month), providing access to a variety of sports content, though major leagues like the NFL and NBA often require paid subscriptions. Free sports channels such as Stadium and beIN Sports extra are available, but they typically offer limited content and include ads. While there are free options, accessing most popular sports on Roku generally requires a paid subscription.
