Exploring the Dominance of Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and Netflix in Sports Programming

The Rise of Streaming Platforms in Sports Programming

In a groundbreaking report from Gracenote, a content data business unit of Nielsen, it has been revealed that Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and Netflix account for an impressive 92% of all sports programming among major subscription video-on-demand (SVOD) services. This statistic illustrates a remarkable shift in how audiences consume sports content, as these platforms continue to expand their libraries at a rapid pace.

Significant Growth in Content Availability

Between February and May, the top streaming platforms collectively increased their unique TV, movie, and sports titles by approximately 4,500, resulting in an overall growth rate of 5%. Netflix led this charge, boasting an impressive 18.2% increase in its catalog during Q2 of 2025. Other major services followed suit but with relatively smaller increases: Apple TV+ saw a 3.7% rise, Amazon Prime Video at 3.2%, Disney+ at 1.6%, and Paramount+ with a modest 1% growth.

Currently, Netflix offers 20.1% of the available content across major streaming services, up from 17.9% in the previous quarter. This increase further solidifies its position as a leader in the streaming industry not only in terms of quantity but also in content diversity.

Surge in Sports Programming

The report also highlights a significant 7.8% growth in sports content among the top five SVOD services, nearly twice the rate of growth for movies and almost a full percentage point ahead of TV programming expansions. This notable increase reflects a growing demand for sports content as these streaming platforms strive to attract and retain subscribers by providing high-quality live sports, news, highlights, and documentaries.

As the battle for viewership intensifies, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and Netflix have emerged as the primary players in the streaming sports arena. Their vast libraries encompass live games and a plethora of sports-related content, catering to diverse sports fans around the globe.

The Evolving Landscape of Streaming Services

Bill Michels, Chief Product Officer at Gracenote, articulates the ongoing evolution of content availability across SVOD platforms. He notes that while the volume of content continues to rise, the applications delivering this content are subject to continual shifts. Effective content discovery is essential for streamers, as it helps connect viewers with entertainment that aligns with their interests and enhances the value derived from these services.

Moreover, the Gracenote Data Hub exemplifies the technological advancements being used to track these industry dynamics. By providing interactive visualizations of content volume, genre trends, and insights on exclusivity and country of origin, the Data Hub supports video service providers, content creators, and advertisers in crafting more effective content distribution and media buying strategies.

Conclusion: Future of Sports Streaming

With the growing competition among streaming platforms, the landscape is poised for even more changes. As Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and Netflix continue to expand their sports offerings, viewers can expect enhanced access to a diverse range of sports content. Gracenote's research reflects just a fragment of the shifting tides in viewer preferences and industry adaptations. As audiences increasingly turn to these digital platforms for their entertainment needs, the importance of strategic content investment and innovation will only heighten, shaping the future of sports streaming.

In summary, the latest findings from Gracenote highlight a transformative period in the realm of sports programming, setting the stage for exciting developments ahead in the streaming sector.