UPDATE: Amazon Prime Video has just announced a groundbreaking change for its NFL broadcast this Thanksgiving weekend, confirming that the Chicago Bears will face the Philadelphia Eagles on Black Friday. For the first time ever, this game will be streamed globally for free, starting at 3 PM ET on November 24, 2023.
This significant shift positions Amazon alongside streaming giants like Netflix and YouTube, as it seeks to capture a larger audience during the holiday season. Previously, Amazon held exclusive rights to Thursday Night Football within the United States, but international rights allowed for broadcasts on various platforms abroad.
In a competitive move, Netflix initiated a global deal last Christmas to air two NFL games, a trend that continues this season with another double-header on December 25, 2023. YouTube also entered the mix earlier this year by streaming a game for free in Brazil, showcasing the Los Angeles Chargers against the Kansas City Chiefs.
As the NFL landscape evolves, Amazon’s decision to broadcast the Black Friday Football game globally reflects a growing trend in sports streaming. The company will also air a Christmas matchup featuring the Denver Broncos taking on the Kansas City Chiefs in prime time, adding to the excitement of a triple-header that day. The festive schedule includes the Dallas Cowboys visiting the Washington Commanders and the Detroit Lions squaring off against the Minnesota Vikings, both of which will be available on Netflix starting at 1 PM ET.
This new strategy by Amazon not only aims to boost viewership but also enhances fan engagement during a significant sporting event, making it easier for international fans to access the action. With streaming becoming the dominant method of consuming sports, fans can expect an exhilarating Thanksgiving weekend filled with NFL action.
Stay tuned for further updates as Amazon and its competitors continue to reshape the sports broadcasting landscape.
