Broadcasters ZDF and RTL Secure Free-to-Air Rights for DFB-Pokal with Exclusive Content Partnerships

.

GermanyS DFB-pokal Rights Telecast Expanded with ZDF and RTL Deal

Germany’s public broadcaster ZDF and commercial network RTL have secured the remaining domestic rights package to the DFB-Pokal, the country’s top men’s knockout soccer competition, in a four-year deal running through the 2029-30 season.

The agreement with German club soccer’s DFB governing body sees the two broadcasters share the awarded free-to-air (FTA) rights package, airing 15 matches each – including one final – per year, from the 2026-27 campaign. The package also includes highlights and clips.

This new agreement builds on ZDF’s current rights to the competition, alongside fellow public broadcaster ARD as 2022-23. That deal is due to expire at the end of the ongoing 2025-26 campaign.

The deal completes the competition’s next four-year domestic rights cycle. Pay-TV heavyweight Sky already secured the main package of 63 matches after an initial tender in May, with ARD also securing a package of 15 FTA games at that time.

The DFB initially opted against awarding the remaining FTA package during the first tender, citing bids that were too low. Following negotiations with interested broadcasters, a follow-up auction was held, resulting in the agreements with ZDF and RTL.

DFB managing director Holger Blask stated, “With our existing partners ARD and Sky, and now RTL, the DFB-pokal will gain even more comprehensive exposure. This decision to not award the rights in the initial tender has proven to be the right one, ensuring economic stability for our clubs and guaranteeing fans high visibility.”

The deal further enhances the broadcast portfolio of RTL, known for it’s coverage of the Champions League and other major sporting events.

How does this new broadcasting deal between ZDF and RTL impact the accessibility of DFB-Pokal matches for the average German football fan?

ZDF and RTL Dominate DFB-pokal Coverage with new Free-to-Air Rights Deal

Securing exclusive Broadcast Rights: A Game Changer for German Football Fans

In a important growth for German football viewership, broadcasters ZDF and RTL have jointly secured the free-to-air (FTA) broadcasting rights for the DFB-Pokal (German Cup) from the 2026/27 season onwards.This landmark agreement, announced in late August 2025, marks a return for RTL to top-tier football coverage and strengthens ZDF’s position as a key sports broadcaster. The deal encompasses broadcasting rights for a total of 18 matches per season, including the semi-finals and the final – ensuring widespread accessibility for fans across Germany. This represents a shift in the DFB-Pokal broadcasting landscape, previously dominated by Sky Deutschland.

The Partnership Breakdown: ZDF and RTL’s Content Strategy

The collaboration between ZDF and RTL isn’t simply about sharing broadcast slots. It’s a strategic partnership built around exclusive content partnerships and complementary broadcasting styles.

* ZDF’s Role: ZDF will primarily focus on broadcasting the semi-finals and the final live, leveraging its established sports programming and high production values. They will also offer extensive pre- and post-match analysis, focusing on tactical breakdowns and player interviews. ZDF’s commitment to public service broadcasting ensures broad accessibility.

* RTL’s Role: RTL will broadcast the earlier rounds of the DFB-pokal, providing coverage of amateur and regional teams – a crucial element of the competition’s appeal. RTL will emphasize storytelling, focusing on the underdog narratives and the passion of local clubs. They will also integrate digital content and interactive features into their broadcasts.

* Digital Integration: Both broadcasters are committed to expanding their digital offerings. This includes live streaming of matches via their respective online platforms (ZDFmediathek and RTL+), highlights packages, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content. DFB-Pokal live streaming will be a key component of the new deal.

Why This Deal Matters: benefits for Viewers and clubs

This new broadcasting arrangement offers several key benefits:

* Increased Accessibility: Free-to-air coverage considerably expands the reach of the DFB-Pokal, allowing a wider audience to enjoy the competition. This is especially important for fans who may not be able to afford subscription services.

* Enhanced Coverage: the combined resources of ZDF and RTL promise more comprehensive coverage, including more matches, in-depth analysis, and diverse perspectives.

* Boost for Lower League Clubs: RTL’s focus on the early rounds will provide valuable exposure for amateur and regional clubs, potentially increasing their fanbase and revenue. DFB-Pokal lower league coverage will be significantly improved.

* Commercial Opportunities: The increased viewership will create new commercial opportunities for both broadcasters and the DFB (German Football Association).

The Impact on Sky Deutschland and the Future of Football Broadcasting

Sky Deutschland, the previous exclusive rights holder for the DFB-Pokal, will see its football portfolio reduced. While Sky continues to hold the rights to the Bundesliga, this deal signals a growing trend towards shared broadcasting rights and the importance of free-to-air coverage.

* Competition in the market: The ZDF/RTL deal intensifies competition in the German sports broadcasting market.

* Shifting Strategies: Sky may need to reassess its strategy and focus on offering exclusive content and premium experiences to retain subscribers.

* The Rise of Hybrid Models: The future of football broadcasting is likely to involve hybrid models, combining exclusive subscription packages with free-to-air coverage. Football broadcasting rights Germany are becoming increasingly complex.

Key Dates and Schedule Information (2026/27 Season Onwards)

While the exact match schedule will be announced closer to the start of the 2026/27 season, here’s a general overview:

1. Early Rounds (RTL): coverage of the first few rounds, featuring matches involving amateur and regional clubs.
2. Round of 16 (Shared): Potential for shared coverage between ZDF and RTL,depending on match pairings.
3. Quarter-Finals (Shared): Similar to the Round of 16, coverage will likely be split between the two broadcasters.
4. Semi-Finals (ZDF): Exclusive live coverage of both semi-final matches on ZDF.
5. Final (ZDF): Exclusive live coverage of the DFB-Pokal final on ZDF.

Leveraging Data Analytics for Enhanced Fan Engagement

Both ZDF and RTL are expected to leverage data analytics to enhance fan engagement. This includes:

* Personalized Content Recommendations: Tailoring content recommendations based on viewer preferences.

* Interactive Features: Incorpor