FuboTV requests Congressional hearing on proposed Disney-Fox-Warner sports platform

FuboTV and other smaller streaming services are gearing up for a battle against the giants of Fox, Disney, and Warner Bros. Discovery in the world of sports streaming. In a bold move, FuboTV, along with DirecTV, Dish Network, and Newsmax, have called for Congressional hearings to address the future of pay TV competition and its impact on consumers.

The coalition led by FuboTV expressed serious concerns about the recent joint venture between the programming giants, which would control a significant 80% of national live sports broadcasts. They believe that this dominance raises competition issues that require immediate oversight from Congress.

In response, the joint venture partners defended their position, stating that the new streaming service is a pro-consumer offering that will provide additional choices for viewers who are currently underserved. The service aims to cater to a segment of viewers who are passionate about sports but may not have access to their favorite games.

The sports joint venture, announced in February 2024, is set to launch later this year, offering channels from ESPN, Fox, TBS, and TNT. However, the coalition of streamers led by FuboTV is concerned about the lack of channels from other major networks like NBCUniversal and Paramount.

The battle between the smaller streamers and the programming giants is heating up, with both sides making their case to Congress. The future of pay TV competition hangs in the balance, and consumers are eagerly watching to see how this showdown will unfold.