Expanding Global Reach: WTT and ITTF’s New Broadcast Strategy

The WTT, the commercial and event arm of the ITTF, is actively reshaping the landscape of table tennis broadcasting. Recognizing the need to break down barriers to entry for fans, the organization has prioritized partnerships that deliver content through free, widely available platforms. This strategic shift aims to cultivate a larger, more engaged global fanbase and unlock new commercial opportunities.

FanDuel TV Secures Exclusive U.S. Rights

In a major win for American table tennis enthusiasts, FanDuel TV will become the exclusive free-to-air broadcaster of WTT and ITTF events throughout 2026. This comprehensive agreement encompasses WTT’s premier events – including the WTT Grand Smash series, WTT Champions, WTT Star Contender tournaments, and the WTT Finals – alongside key ITTF competitions like the World Table Tennis Championships Finals, the ITTF Singles World Cup, and the ITTF Mixed Team World Cup.

Coverage will be readily accessible via FanDuel TV’s FAST (Free Ad Supported Streaming Television) channels and its streaming services, FanDuel TV+ and FanDuel TV Extra. FanDuel TV Extra is distributed across a vast network of free streaming platforms, including The Roku Channel, Prime Video, Samsung TV Plus, Pluto TV, Tubi, Xumo Play, Vizio WatchFree+, Sling Freestream, and Plex. FanDuel TV+ is available with a free FanDuel account on Roku, Amazon Fire, Apple TV, and Android TV devices.

L’Équipe Brings Table Tennis to French-Speaking Audiences

Simultaneously, WTT and ITTF have forged a three-year media rights partnership with L’Équipe, running from 2026 to 2028. This collaboration will deliver comprehensive coverage of the entire WTT season to viewers in France, its overseas territories, Andorra, Monaco, and Mauritius. L’Équipe will provide exclusive French-language broadcasts across both traditional television and digital platforms.

These agreements represent a significant step forward in the internationalization of table tennis. Do you think increased accessibility will lead to a surge in participation in the sport, particularly among younger audiences? And how might this expanded reach impact sponsorship opportunities for WTT and ITTF events?

The move towards free-to-view broadcasting aligns with a broader trend in sports media, where accessibility is increasingly recognized as a key driver of fan engagement. By prioritizing reach and removing financial barriers, WTT and ITTF are positioning table tennis for sustained growth and greater prominence on the global stage. The International Table Tennis Federation’s website provides further details on their initiatives.

Frequently Asked Questions About WTT and ITTF Broadcast Deals

1. What is the primary benefit of the WTT and ITTF broadcast agreements?
   The primary benefit is increased accessibility for fans, as major table tennis events will now be available for free on widely accessible platforms.
2. Which events will be broadcast on FanDuel TV in the U.S.?
   FanDuel TV will broadcast all WTT flagship properties, including Grand Smash, Champions, Star Contender, and Finals events, as well as major ITTF championships and World Cups.
3. Where can I watch table tennis on FanDuel TV?
   You can watch on FanDuel TV’s FAST channels, FanDuel TV Extra (available on platforms like Roku and Prime Video), and its streaming service, FanDuel TV+.
4. What regions are covered by the L’Équipe broadcast partnership?
   L’Équipe will provide coverage across France, its overseas territories, Andorra, Monaco, and Mauritius.
5. How long does the L’Équipe partnership last?
   The partnership with L’Équipe is a three-year agreement, running from 2026 to 2028.
6. Will these broadcast deals impact the quality of table tennis coverage?
   WTT and ITTF have stated their commitment to delivering high-quality broadcasts, and these partnerships are expected to enhance the viewing experience for fans.