CBS, U.S Soccer agree on deal to broadcast U.S. Open Cup matches through 2026

U.S. Soccer and CBS Sports reached an agreement on a two-year deal to broadcast the U.S. Open Cup on Paramount+, they announced Wednesday.

The network will make every game available for streaming starting with the third round, which commences on April 15. Select matches with also be broadcast on CBS Sports. CBS Golazo Network will offer supplementary content with studio personalities and analysts.

The Open Cup has come under scrutiny in recent years after MLS reduced its participation in the tournament, with just 16 teams sending their first-team sides - although MLS Next Pro clubs for those that aren't involved are in the mix.

Still, it has remained a strong competition, and an important point of reference for USL and amateur clubs.

U.S. Soccer chief commercial officer David Wright expressed his excitement on the deal in statement:

"This is an incredible step forward in our service to soccer strategy and to further growing the game which highlights the longest-running and most inclusive soccer tournament in the United States. CBS Sports has shown a tremendous commitment to offer accessibility for all soccer fans and to grow the sport domestically and globally, and we’re excited to have the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup featured among the world’s most exciting soccer competitions."

CBS executive vice president, programming Dan Weinberg echoed the sentiment:

"The Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup is a marquee addition to CBS Sports’ premium soccer portfolio with its reach across all levels of the domestic game. We’re expanding our coverage by making the tournament’s exciting competition more accessible to fans than ever before and further solidifying Paramount+ as the premier destination for soccer in this country."

The second round of the competition is slated for next week, with fixtures kicking off on April 1. MLS teams will enter in the third round in mid April.