The FCC has launched a public inquiry into the growing shift of live sports programming from free, over-the-air broadcast television to subscription-based streaming services, seeking comments from the public on how this trend affects consumers, broadcasters, and access to local news.
Announced Wednesday, by FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, the inquiry highlights concerns over marketplace fragmentation, where fans increasingly need multiple paid subscriptions, potentially costing over $1,500 annually for full NFL coverage in some estimates, to watch games that once aired freely on broadcast TV.
The comment period runs through March 27, 2026, with reply comments due by April 13.
While streaming platforms have expanded access to more professional and collegiate sports, offering additional games, on-demand viewing, and innovative features, the FCC notes this shift has fragmented the sports media landscape. In 2025 alone, NFL games were distributed across 10 different services, including exclusive streaming deals with Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, Peacock, and Netflix for various regular-season and playoff matchups.
The agency is now asking stakeholders to address key questions: Does the current marketplace benefit consumers through greater choice and innovation, or does it harm them with higher costs, navigation challenges, and reduced accessibility? How does fragmentation impact local broadcasters' ability to fulfill public interest obligations, such as funding local journalism? And what future changes might affect free over-the-air access to news, information, and public safety alerts?
This inquiry reflects broader concerns raised by fans, lawmakers, and industry groups about the evolving sports viewing experience becoming more expensive and complicated, even as many major events remain available on free broadcast in local markets. The FCC aims to better understand these dynamics before considering any potential regulatory steps.