ION will broadcast every match of the 2027 FIVB Women’s Volleyball World Cup. The Scripps-owned network struck the deal with Volleyball World and the tournament’s organizing committee.
What We Know: Volleyball World, the 2027 FIVB Women’s Volleyball World Cup Organizing Committee and Scripps Sports signed an exclusive U.S. broadcast agreement. In addition, all 64 games will air on ION and Scripps Sports platforms, in English and Spanish. Horizon Sports & Experiences facilitated the deal as the tournament’s exclusive sponsorship and media rights agency. ION reaches more than 126 million households. Moreover, this event adds to a women’s sports portfolio that already includes the WNBA, NWSL, PWHL and PWR.
What They Said: Brian Lawlor, president of Scripps Sports: “The FIVB Women’s Volleyball World Cup is a premier global tournament that showcases the incredible athleticism and competitive intensity of the world’s best volleyball players. We’re thrilled and honored to bring the 2027 event to ION and to the millions of loyal and passionate volleyball fans across the United States.”
Craig Thompson, CEO of the FIVB Women’s Volleyball World Cup 2027: “This agreement represents an unprecedented level of U.S. distribution for the FIVB Women’s Volleyball World Cup. [It’s] a defining moment for the sport in this market. The world’s best athletes, competing in one of the most dynamic and compelling sports on the planet, will have an extraordinary platform to reach millions of fans across the country. It’s a tremendous opportunity to introduce new audiences to the power and excitement of women’s volleyball. Building a new generation of fans.”
David Levy, co-CEO and Founder, Horizon Sports & Experiences: “The FIVB Women’s Volleyball World Cup has all the components that make for great television. Elite competition, a passionate, global fan base, and significant potential for advertisers and sponsors. Securing this rights deal with Scripps and ION elevates the sport to new heights. Also creates new commercial opportunities, and provides the athletes with a significant platform for their matches. We look forward to working closely with FIVB and ION to continue to build upon the momentum for this event.”
What Remains Unclear: Broadcast schedules and game-by-game assignments across ION and Scripps platforms remain unannounced.
What It Means: The agreement adds another property to the growing women’s sports catalog for Scripps Sports. The deal significantly expands volleyball’s U.S. television footprint ahead of the tournament. Moreover, thirty-two national teams will compete in August and September 2027. In conclusion, the top three unqualified finishers earning LA28 Olympic berths.
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John Mamola is Barrett Media’s sports editor and daily sports columnist. He brings over two decades of experience (Chicago, Tampa/St Petersburg) in the broadcast industry with expertise in brand management, sales, promotions, producing, imaging, hosting, talent coaching, talent development, web development, social media strategy and design, video production, creative writing, partnership building, communication/networking with a long track record of growth and success. He is a five-time recognized top 20 program director in a major market via Barrett Medi’s Top 20 series and has been honored internally multiple times as station/brand of the year (Tampa, FL) and employee of the month (Tampa, FL) by iHeartMedia. Connect with John by email at John@BarrettMedia.com.