Free sport in Germany
Quick answer: in Germany, ARD and ZDF broadcast the major events and a part of national sport free of charge, also through their apps. The Bundesliga is mostly pay-TV, but summaries and some international matches remain available. The public broadcasters are financed by the household broadcasting fee and have no pay-per-view.
What is free in Germany
In Germany, ARD and ZDF broadcast the major events and a part of national sport free of charge, also through their apps. The Bundesliga is mostly pay-TV, but summaries and some international matches have free-to-air coverage.
The German system is financed by the broadcasting fee (Rundfunkbeitrag), which is paid per household. There is no pay-per-view on the public channels, and their platforms are free once you have registered.
Broadcasters and platforms
Free and pay-TV options in Germany
The Bundesliga
The Bundesliga is pay-TV in Germany. ARD and ZDF broadcast summaries and keep some matches free-to-air, above all internationals and international competitions. The competition's page sets this out in detail.
How to watch it
The ARD and ZDF platforms are available in the browser and in apps for mobile phones and televisions. Some broadcasts are restricted to Germany for rights reasons.
Frequently asked questions
Which sport can you watch for free in Germany?
The major events, national sport and a part of international sport, through ARD and ZDF. Also summaries and minority sports.
Is the Bundesliga free?
For the most part, no. It is pay-TV, although ARD and ZDF broadcast summaries and some matches free-to-air.
Are ARD and ZDF free?
They are free at the point of use, but they are financed by the broadcasting fee, which is compulsory per household in Germany.
Can I watch ARD from Spain?
Some broadcasts are geoblocked. A VPN does not grant rights and may breach the terms of service.
Where can I watch Formula 1 in Germany?
Part of the season is broadcast free-to-air and the rest on pay-TV platforms. The Formula 1 page sets out the free options.
Are international matches free?
Many are, through ARD and ZDF, although availability changes according to the rights for each competition.