SUPER NETBALL may bounce back to free-to-air under new TV deal

Netball Australia explores return to free-to-air in next broadcast deal

Netball Australia has begun early talks over a new broadcast rights agreement, with the prospect of Super Netball returning to free-to-air television forming part of negotiations.

The Daily Telegraph reports the current five-year deal with Fox Sports, worth $35 million, is due to expire at the end of 2026.

TV Blackbox understands Fox Sports remains the frontrunner to retain the rights. However, a combined offer from Nine/Stan or 10/Paramount+ could present Netball Australia with a more attractive package by including free-to-air exposure alongside streaming.

ESPN Aust/NZ is also emerging as a new key contender for local sports rights through its distribution arms, including Kayo, Disney+, Foxtel, and Fetch.

Super Netball was previously broadcast by the Nine Network for five seasons, beginning in 2017 when Sunshine Coast Lightning claimed the inaugural premiership.

According to Netball Australia, the addition of Silver Ferns players during the recent free agency period has strengthened the competition, and the organisation believes this enhances its case for a package covering both Super Netball and the Diamonds.

Media rights executive Steph Beltrame, who is advising Netball Australia, confirmed that informal discussions have already begun. She said there had been significant interest in the rights and noted the importance of ensuring greater visibility for the sport in any future deal. While she stressed Fox remains central to discussions, she indicated the structure of the next agreement could be different, potentially involving a free-to-air component.

Super Netball continues to post strong results. In 2025, total attendance reached 386,455 across the season, including more than 15,000 at the grand final.

It was the second consecutive year the competition ranked as Australia’s most-attended women’s domestic league. Viewership also grew, with grand final audiences on Fox Sports and Kayo up nearly 60 per cent on the previous year, and the finals series rising more than 25 per cent.

SOURCE: The Daily Telegraph