Disney's ESPN Acquires Stake in Premier Lacrosse League, Secures Five-Year Broadcast Deal

Disney's ESPN has acquired a minority stake in the Premier Lacrosse League (PLL) and secured a five-year broadcast deal, as announced in a statement released on Wednesday. The financial details of the stock acquisition and its scale were not disclosed by either party. This strategic partnership marks a significant expansion of ESPN's sports programming and content offerings, positioning the network as a key player in the growing lacrosse market.

The broadcast agreement, set to commence with the 2026 season, will cover all PLL regular-season games, the All-Star Game, playoffs, and the championship. Additionally, it will include matches from the Major League Lacrosse (MLL) and future draft events for both the PLL and the Women's Lacrosse League (WLL). All PLL and WLL series matches will be broadcast live on ESPN+, with select games also airing on ABC, ESPN, and ESPN2. Further details regarding the international broadcast arrangements for these events are expected to be announced soon.

This partnership is mutually beneficial for both Disney and the PLL. For Disney, it enhances its sports portfolio and provides access to a unique and growing sport, potentially attracting new viewers and subscribers. For the PLL, the collaboration with ESPN offers a robust platform to reach a broader audience, increasing the league's visibility and fan base. The extensive reach of ESPN, combined with the unique appeal of lacrosse, is expected to foster growth and engagement within the lacrosse community.

By securing this deal, Disney demonstrates its commitment to diversifying its content offerings and expanding its sports programming. The acquisition of a minority stake in the PLL, along with the extended broadcast rights, positions ESPN as a key player in the lacrosse market. This strategic move not only enhances ESPN's portfolio but also provides the PLL with the resources and platform needed to grow and thrive. The partnership is expected to benefit both parties by leveraging ESPN's extensive reach and the PLL's unique sport, fostering growth and engagement in the lacrosse community.