ARD and ZDF: free sport
Quick answer: ARD and ZDF are Germany's public broadcasters and show major events and some national sport for free in Germany, including through their ARD Mediathek and ZDF Mediathek apps. The Bundesliga is mostly behind a paywall, although summaries and selected matches remain available. They are funded by the compulsory household broadcasting fee.
What ARD and ZDF are
ARD and ZDF are the two German public broadcasters. They show major events and some national sport for free, including through their platforms (ARD Mediathek and ZDF Mediathek). They are funded by the broadcasting fee, which is compulsory per household.
The Bundesliga is mostly pay-to-view, but the public broadcasters retain highlights and some national-team and international competition matches.
What they show for free
ARD and ZDF content
What they do not cover
The full Bundesliga and most club football are on paid platforms. The public broadcasters show highlights and specific events.
How to use them
The platforms are available in a browser and through mobile and TV apps. Some content requires you to be in Germany.
Frequently asked questions
Are ARD and ZDF free?
They are free at the point of use, but are funded by the broadcasting fee, which is compulsory per household in Germany.
What sport do they show?
Major events, national sport, national-team matches and highlights. The full Bundesliga is not included.
Do I need to register?
Not always for live streams, but some features and the on-demand catalogue may require registration.
Can I watch them from Spain?
Some broadcasts are geo-blocked. A VPN does not grant rights and may breach the terms of service.
Do they have a Smart TV app?
Yes, ARD and ZDF offer apps for the main TV platforms and for mobile.
Do they show the Bundesliga?
Only highlights and selected events, not the full season.