Disney+ Secures Global Streaming Rights for League of Legends KeSPA Cup and More
The League of Legends KeSPA cup will air globally on Disney+
Engadget
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Disney+ has partnered with the Korea Esports Association to globally stream major esports tournaments, including the 2026 League of Legends KeSPA Cup. This agreement marks a significant expansion from previous Asian-only broadcasts, but may challenge viewers accustomed to free streaming on platforms like Twitch and YouTube.
- 01Disney+ will globally stream the 2026 League of Legends KeSPA Cup and other esports events.
- 02The deal expands on last year's Asian-only streaming arrangement.
- 03The first event, Esports Champions Asia, takes place from April 24-26, 2026.
- 04Many esports tournaments are still available for free on platforms like Twitch and YouTube.
- 05The new subscription requirement may deter some viewers and impact co-streamers' audiences.
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Disney has signed a deal with the Korea Esports Association (KeSPA) to stream major esports tournaments on Disney+, including the 2026 League of Legends KeSPA Cup. This agreement expands Disney's previous arrangement, which only allowed streaming in Asia last year. The first event under this new partnership, Esports Champions Asia, is scheduled for April 24-26, 2026, featuring games like Street Fighter 6, TEKKEN 8, and PUBG Mobile. While this move could centralize viewing for Western esports fans, many tournaments remain free on platforms like Twitch and YouTube, making the subscription requirement feel burdensome. Additionally, the shift may negatively affect co-streamers who rely on more accessible broadcast options.
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