The US Soccer governing body has agreed a deal with Westwood One, the radio network owned by Cumulus Media, to serve as its new domestic English-language audio rights partner.
Through a multi-year exclusive partnership, the Westwood One Sports platform will have rights to broadcast all US Soccer Federation-hosted matches, including all friendlies played by the men’s (USMNT) and women’s (USWNT) national teams, Concacaf Nations League quarter-final matches, and the SheBelieves Cup women's tournament.
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The first broadcast will be Thursday night’s (February 20) SheBelieves Cup game between the USWNT and Colombia.
As part of the deal, US Soccer will also launch a new podcast series that will bring exclusive insights and behind-the-scenes access to its senior, youth, and extended national teams.
Westwood One Sports will be the home of US Soccer podcasts on radio and other audio platforms in the US through 2030.
The network joins Warner Bros. Discovery, NBCUniversal Telemundo, and Fútbol de Primera as US Soccer’s domestic media rightsholders.
David Wright, chief commercial officer for US Soccer, has said: “We want US Soccer fans to have as many avenues as possible to engage with our matches, players, and coaches, and this partnership allows them to find us on Westwood One Sports’ vast network.”
Collin Jones, president of Westwood One and executive vice president of corporate strategy and development at Cumulus Media, added: “The addition of US Soccer to our Westwood One Sports platform is an exciting milestone for us.
“This partnership not only provides fans with unparalleled access to the action on the pitch but also creates valuable opportunities for our advertisers to connect with a passionate and engaged audience.”
Westwood One is also the exclusive network radio partner of American football's NFL and boadcasts several other properties such as NCAA football and basketball and golf's Masters.
In terms of recent US Soccer activity, late January saw the federation announce a new partnership with major US DIY and home improvement retail chain Home Depot.
