Tired of sky-high cable bills just for sports? Fubo is bringing back its ‘skinny’ bundle, now with ESPN Unlimited and a host of other live channels for just $56 a month! Could this be the game-changer cord-cutters have been waiting for? Get ready to rethink how you watch your favorite teams!
Fubo’s new ‘skinny’ sports bundle marks a significant shift in the competitive landscape of live television streaming, offering a streamlined, sports-centric package designed to attract cord-cutters and dedicated fans alike. This strategic move harks back to the streaming service’s origins, prioritizing affordability and direct access to essential sports content over expansive, often costly, channel lineups. The introduction of this focused offering underscores a broader industry trend towards more customizable and budget-friendly viewing experiences.
When FuboTV first emerged in 2015, its initial appeal was squarely aimed at the fervent soccer community, providing a lean bundle of channels specifically curated for international football enthusiasts at a modest monthly fee. However, over time, the platform expanded its channel offerings dramatically, evolving into comprehensive, “fat” TV packages that mirrored the pricing and breadth of traditional cable and satellite subscriptions. This new initiative, therefore, represents a strategic return to its foundational principle of specialized, value-driven content.
Named “Fubo Sports,” this standalone streaming plan is set to launch on September 2, offering over 20 channels meticulously chosen for sports programming. A key highlight of this bundle is its inclusion of unlimited access to ESPN, a cornerstone for any avid sports fan. The pricing structure is designed to entice new subscribers, starting at an introductory rate of $45.99 for the first month, before settling at a consistent $55.99 per month thereafter, positioning it as a more accessible option than many existing packages.
While a $56 monthly fee might initially seem substantial, it represents a notable saving when compared to the escalating costs of many pay-TV services, including Fubo’s own premium offerings like Pro ($84.99/month), Elite With Sports Plus ($104.99/month), and Deluxe ($114.99/month). Furthermore, considering that ESPN Unlimited typically costs $29.99 per month as a standalone service, its integration into the Fubo Sports bundle adds significant value for subscribers seeking comprehensive sports coverage.
The robust channel lineup for Fubo Sports at launch is impressive, encompassing major local affiliates such as ABC, CBS, and Fox in select markets, alongside a strong roster of national sports networks. This includes ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNews, ESPNU, ACC Network, Big 10 Network, CBS Sports Network, Fox News, FS1, FS2, Fubo Sports Network, ION, NFL Network, SEC Network, and Tennis Channel. It is important to note, however, that the package does not currently feature any channels from NBCUniversal or Warner Bros. Discovery.
A significant draw for Fubo Sports subscribers is the integrated access to the recently introduced ESPN Unlimited direct-to-consumer service, which also bundles ESPN+. Initially, viewers will authenticate their Fubo subscription through ESPN’s proprietary applications to gain access. Fubo is poised to become the pioneering provider to offer ESPN Unlimited directly within its platform in the coming weeks, streamlining the user experience and further solidifying its position as a premier destination for live sports.
The launch of Fubo Sports will commence in major metropolitan areas, with a phased rollout anticipated in subsequent months. This expansion is contingent upon additional affiliates opting into Fubo’s recently finalized distribution agreements, which are specifically tailored for the Fubo Sports offering. This strategic, market-by-market approach aims to ensure a smooth integration and broad availability for sports enthusiasts across the nation.
This launch follows a period of significant industry shifts and legal challenges for Fubo. In early 2024, Disney, Fox, and Warner Bros. Discovery announced a joint venture for a competing sports streaming service. Fubo subsequently filed an antitrust lawsuit, alleging anti-competitive practices. However, this legal dispute was resolved, with Fubo dropping its lawsuit as part of a deal that saw it joining a joint venture majority-owned by Disney in January 2025, a deal expected to close in 2026, alongside Disney, Fox, and Warner Bros. Discovery’s continued plans for their separate sports streaming venture.
Commenting on the new offering, Fubo co-founder and CEO David Gandler emphasized the company’s commitment to providing consumers with flexible and affordable content choices. He stated that the Fubo Sports bundle would “add another content tier to our broad portfolio, super-serving passionate sports fans.” The company also highlights its leadership in internet-delivered pay TV, boasting features like 4K streaming for select content, multiview capabilities, and personalized game alerts, enhancing the overall sports viewing experience.
