Watching sports has become significantly more complex than simply turning on the TV. Regional blackouts, paywalls, and exclusive rights create a confusing landscape for fans. This guide simplifies the process, highlighting the best streaming services for live sports, catering to diverse fan preferences.

With numerous streaming services broadcasting live sports, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. We've curated a list of top options to help you navigate this challenge.

Hulu + Live TV

Best Streaming Bundle For Sports

Hulu + Live TV

Includes Disney+ (With Ads) and ESPN+ (With Ads). $82.99 at Hulu

Hulu + Live TV offers extensive coverage of popular sports across its 95+ channels, including NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, NCAA, international soccer, UFC, and more. Beyond local channels, it features games on ESPN, CBS Sports Network, NFL Network, and FS1.

The bundled Disney+ and ESPN+ access unlocks additional exclusive events (like UFC and college sports), original programming, and more. A three-day free trial lets you test the service before committing. It's an excellent option for March Madness viewing in 2025.

Fubo

Best Variety

Fubo (Pro)

Save $30 off first month after free trial. $84.99 (save 35%), $54.99 at Fubo

Fubo provides a vast selection of over 55,000 annual sporting events, encompassing NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS, NCAA, NASCAR, golf, tennis, boxing, MMA, and extensive international soccer (Premier League, LaLiga, UEFA Champions League, Ligue 1, Liga MX, Serie A). Add-on packages offer further channels, including NFL RedZone and league-specific passes.

Peacock

Best For Premier League Soccer and WWE

NBC Peacock (Premium)

Annual plan available for $79.99/year. $7.99 at Peacock

As an NBCUniversal property, Peacock streams extensive sports content. Premier League soccer is a major highlight, offering live coverage and exclusive matches. WWE fans will appreciate its exclusive live streaming rights for all premium events, including WrestleMania. It also features NFL Sunday Night Football and Big Ten college basketball.

ESPN+

Best For UFC and College Sports

ESPN+

Annual plan available for $119.99/year. $11.99 at ESPN

ESPN+ exclusively streams UFC events, including PPV fights (requiring an additional $79.99), Fight Nights, and an extensive archive. It also offers over 6,000 college sporting events across 26 conferences. Note: ESPN+ does not include access to the main ESPN channels.

DirecTV Stream

Best Cable Alternative

DirecTV Stream (Choice)

Includes $10 off for 24 months. $79.99 at DirecTV

DirecTV Stream provides a cable-like experience without the satellite, offering local networks and sports channels such as ESPN, FS1, NBA TV, MLB Network, and the Tennis Channel. The Choice package offers over 125 channels, including many regional sports events. A five-day free trial is available.

Paramount+

Best For PGA Golf

Paramount+ (Essential)

Annual plan available for $59.99/year. $7.99 at Paramount

Paramount+ streams CBS Sports content, including NFL on CBS games and UEFA Champions League matches. It also includes CBS Sports HQ, documentaries, and a library of sports-related programming. The Showtime add-on provides access to major PGA Tour events.

Sports Streaming FAQs

Can You Watch Live Sports For Free?

Yes, select live sports are free via local channels (using a TV antenna) and ad-supported streaming services like Sling Freestream. However, availability varies greatly.

Which Sports Streaming Services Have Free Trials?

Hulu + Live TV, Fubo, DirecTV Stream, and Paramount+ offer free trials (ranging from three days to a week). Peacock and ESPN+ currently do not offer free trials individually, though ESPN+ is included in the Hulu + Live TV trial. See our list of the Best Streaming Services With Free Trials in 2025 for broader options.