Concacaf has officially ended its broadcasting rights agreement with Fox Sports Mexico, just days before the kickoff of the 2025 Concacaf Champions Cup. The decision affects the rights to air the high-stakes matches featuring popular Mexican teams such as Cruz Azul, Tigres, and Chivas.
On January 31, 2025, Concacaf announced this significant shift, stating, "Concacaf has announced today it has terminated its relationship with Fox Sports Mexico, its media rights licensee for the Concacaf Champions Cup in Mexico." This news poses questions for millions of fans accustomed to watching the tournament on Fox Sports.
With the Champions Cup set to begin on February 4, 2025, Concacaf aims to deliver exciting updates shortly to reveal how fans can enjoy the 60th edition of the tournament. This abrupt termination of broadcasting rights has left many wondering about alternative viewing options.
The backdrop to this development includes previous rumors of financial discord between Concacaf and Fox Sports. Last month, Concacaf launched legal proceedings against Grupo Lauman, which operates Fox Sports Mexico, citing alleged payment violations. The company has experienced extensive losses, resulting in the withdrawal of important broadcast rights ranging from Mexican leagues to WWE and NFL games.
Until now, Fox Sports had enjoyed the exclusivity of airing the Champions Cup, but signals of impending change had been circulating for months. This momentous decision necessitates quick action on the part of Concacaf to secure new broadcast partners as the tournament nears.
Concacaf is currently exploring broadcasting options and assures fans it will soon share details to facilitate enjoyment of tournament matches. While the specific new partner has not been announced, possibilities include ESPN and TUDN, both of which have the infrastructure to handle such high-profile games.
For now, fans of Liga MX teams must prepare for the opening matches without the usual clarity on where to view them. Next week, Cruz Azul will face Real Hope, Monterrey tackles Forge, and Tigres meets Real Estelí, followed by Chivas and Pumas against Cibao and Cavalry, respectively.
This shift emphasizes the growing challenges faced by broadcasters amid changing media landscapes and financial struggles, reflecting broader industry challenges.
Concacaf's prompt announcement reveals its urgency to resolve these broadcasting rights, ensuring fans can still engage with competitive soccer. The departure of Fox Sports signifies not just the end of one broadcasting tenure but also the potential for new partnerships and outreach to fans.
With the clock ticking down to the Champions Cup's 2025 start, the excitement builds not just for the teams but also for how and where those tense moments will be aired for the eager fans.