YouTube TV service continuation extended temporarily by Fox

YouTube TV and Fox Networks Reach Long-Term Agreement Ahead of NFL Season and College Football Kickoff

In a relief for sports enthusiasts, YouTube TV and Fox Networks have reached a long-term agreement, ensuring the continuity of Fox networks on the live TV streaming service. The deal was finalised before the highly-anticipated Texas Longhorns vs. Ohio State game, scheduled for Fox's Big Noon Kickoff, and the start of the NFL season.

The disagreement between the two parties was over the payments for distributing Fox Corporation's networks. Google's YouTube TV expressed concern over Fox's request for payments allegedly higher than those of partners with comparable content offerings. Fox, on the other hand, accused Google of proposing terms that are out of step with the marketplace.

The FCC did not intervene in this instance as it does not have direct authority over television delivered over the internet by services like YouTube TV. However, FCC chairman Brendan Carr had previously urged Google to make a deal to avoid removing Fox channels from YouTube TV. This was the second time in 2025 that YouTube TV faced the potential of dropping a major programmer, the first being the men's side of March Madness through CBS.

The extension was reached after the previous carriage agreement expired at 5 p.m. ET on Wednesday. As a result, YouTube TV subscribers can watch college football this weekend as Fox's television channels have been extended on the platform. The disagreement was resolved before the start of the NFL season, ensuring that the exclusive game between the Kansas City Chiefs and Los Angeles Chargers on Sept. 5 was not impacted by any potential blackout on YouTube TV.

It is worth noting that Fox networks, including the broadcast channel, FS1, and the Big Ten Network, were at risk of going dark on YouTube TV without a deal. The parties negotiating a long-term agreement in spring 2025 aimed to ensure the transmission of Fox networks on the YouTube TV service.

The Texas Longhorns vs. Ohio State game, scheduled for Fox's Big Noon Kickoff, is the first high-profile college football game of the season. The game, along with the upcoming NFL season, will now be available to YouTube TV subscribers without any disruptions. Google-owned live TV service also promised that it would give subscribers a $10 credit if the Fox channels remained off for an extended period.

This resolution marks a positive step forward for both parties, ensuring that viewers can continue to enjoy their favourite sports on YouTube TV without any interruptions.