ESPN+ streaming service news
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The gist
ESPN raises ESPN Unlimited to $31.99/month and ESPN Select to $13.99/month starting Sept. 17. The hikes hit sports fans just before football season, adding to broader streaming price increases.
Background
ESPN launched its stand-alone streaming service ESPN Unlimited in August 2025, alongside a lower-priced ESPN Select (formerly ESPN+). Now, for the first time since launch, Disney is raising prices on both plans, effective September 17, 2026. The increases come as Disney pushes to grow its direct-to-consumer business and integrate ESPN content into Disney+, with additional college football simulcasts planned this fall.
How it unfolded
- Aug 2025ESPN Unlimited launched as a stand-alone streaming service, with ESPN Select as a lower-priced tier.
- Aug 20, 2026ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro sent a memo to staff marking the platform's first anniversary and praising the team.
- Aug 24, 2026Reports emerged that ESPN would raise prices for ESPN Unlimited and ESPN Select, effective September 17.
- Sep 17, 2026Price hikes take effect: ESPN Unlimited rises to $31.99/month (or $319.99/year), ESPN Select to $13.99/month (or $139.99/year).
Who’s saying what
- Official
- ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro said the company is focused on 'maximizing access' and providing sports fans with optionality and new ways to connect with ESPN.
- Analysts
- Analysts note that streaming platforms like Netflix have been steadily increasing prices over the last decade, making them less of a bargain compared to cable.
Still unverified
Disney has not disclosed subscriber numbers for ESPN Unlimited, and the exact impact on subscriber growth is unknown.