Sports Media with Richard Deitsch Sports Media Predictions for 2026
Dec 29, 2025
Jon Lewis, founder of Sports Media Watch, and Austin Karp, media reporter at Sports Business Journal, dive into their bold predictions for 2026. They forecast the World Cup as a record-breaking TV event, though its impact on U.S. soccer may be fleeting. Discussions also touch on MLB’s evolving broadcast rights and potential turmoil in regional sports networks. They analyze the futures of smaller leagues and debate whether Turner Sports can maintain its hold amid corporate changes, all while addressing the star power of athletes like Caitlin Clark.
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Winter Olympics Will Rebound, Not Surpass
- Milan-Cortina can regain Olympic viewership momentum but won't match Summer Games.
- Figure skating contenders and live-plus-primetime packaging will bolster U.S. numbers.
Double-Window Olympic Programming Works
- Make content available live and package storytelling in primetime to maximize reach.
- Combine daytime live windows with primetime storytelling to drive larger cumulative audiences.
Mixed Views On Pat McAfee's Trajectory
- Pat McAfee's influence may plateau rather than keep rising in 2026.
- Jon Lewis expects stagnation while Austin Karp expects growth, showing mixed industry views.