Nexstar Media Group’s CW Network and ESPN Forge Groundbreaking Streaming Partnership

This collaboration marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of CW Sports, according to Brad Schwartz, President of The CW Network. With the new arrangement, CW Sports will not only be broadcast live on The CW Network but will also be available to stream on the ESPN App for fans with an ESPN Unlimited subscription. This dual-access model allows viewers to enjoy live sports coverage across multiple platforms and devices, enhancing the overall viewer experience.

“Joining forces with ESPN is a monumental next step in the evolution of CW Sports,” Schwartz stated. “This agreement extends the reach of CW Sports and enables us to capture audiences across the best of broadcast and the best of streaming, ensuring fans can access live CW Sports wherever they are and on whatever device they prefer.”

The CW Network's commitment to providing a diverse range of sports is evidenced by the impressive lineup set to be included in the partnership. Fans can look forward to live coverage of college football and basketball from prestigious conferences such as the ACC, Pac-12, and Mountain West, as well as events from the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, WWE NXT, PBA Bowling, PBR Bull Riding, AVP Beach Volleyball, and the 2026 Arizona Bowl.

Rosalyn Durant, Executive Vice President of ESPN Programming & Acquisitions, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “Bringing CW Sports to the ESPN App is another step in delivering more value, choice, and flexibility for fans, expanding the range of live sports available within our streaming ecosystem.”

Since its launch in 2023, CW Sports has quickly established itself as a prominent player in the sports broadcasting arena. In just two years, it has become the exclusive home for all 33 races in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, achieving remarkable viewership growth during its initial seasons. Notably, the 2025 NASCAR season was the most-watched in four years, with a ten percent increase in total audience. As the current 2026 season progresses, CW Sports has reported that each of the first ten races has drawn over one million viewers weekly, reflecting a 22 percent rise in viewership compared to the previous year.

In addition to NASCAR, the CW has strengthened its position in college sports by extending partnerships with the ACC and Pac-12, and it is set to begin a new agreement with the Mountain West in Fall 2026. This includes a robust schedule of football and basketball games, further solidifying The CW’s presence in the collegiate sports landscape.

The ESPN App is well-equipped to enhance viewer engagement with its array of features, including multiview and synchronized two-screen viewing options, swipe-able short-form videos, and personalized content delivery through SportsCenter For You. Fans will also benefit from integrated game statistics, fantasy sports options, and access to betting information, creating a comprehensive sports viewing experience.

The partnership not only aims to boost the reach of CW Sports but also provides advertisers with a unique opportunity to connect with new audiences across both digital and broadcast platforms.

As the streaming landscape continues to evolve, the partnership between Nexstar Media Group’s CW Network and ESPN sets a new standard for sports broadcasting. With an extensive lineup of live events and enhanced streaming capabilities, this collaboration promises to deliver unparalleled access to sports fans across the nation. The CW Sports offerings are set to launch on the ESPN App in Summer 2026, marking an exciting new chapter for both networks and their audiences.