Disney Executives Signal Ongoing Standoff with YouTube TV Over Sports Rights

LOS ANGELES, California — Disney is facing a significant challenge as its ESPN and ABC channels remain unavailable to millions of YouTube TV subscribers due to an ongoing dispute over distribution rights. This standoff, which began on October 31, 2025, affects college football and NFL viewership as fans miss key games like the upcoming Top 10 matchup between BYU and Texas Tech.

In an internal memo shared with employees, Disney executives, including co-chairmen Dana Walden and Alan Bergman, and ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro, expressed skepticism about reaching an agreement with YouTube TV. They criticized Google, saying, “Rather than compete on a level playing field, Google’s YouTube TV has approached these negotiations as if it were the only player in the game.”

The standoff highlights the battle over carriage fees and bundling options. Disney argues that its premium content justifies higher fees, while YouTube TV insists on receiving terms that the company deems below market value. A YouTube TV spokesperson stated, “Our team stands ready to make a fair agreement… and we encourage Disney to come to the table and do what’s best for our mutual customers.”

The blackout has reportedly affected up to 10 million subscribers, leading to speculation about its impact on viewership ratings for college football and “Monday Night Football.” A survey by The Athletic shows that 60% of YouTube TV subscribers are considering switching services due to the situation.

Industry analysts suggest that the ongoing dispute could have broader implications for the future of live sports streaming as more viewers move to online platforms. As negotiations drag on, Disney is emphasizing the value of its bundled offerings, including its timely news coverage amid the U.S. elections.

With a packed sports calendar ahead, including prominent matchups like LSU vs. Alabama, viewers are frustrated and anxious. Disney’s memo ended with a note acknowledging the challenges faced by subscribers and the uncertainty of when ESPN and ABC will return to YouTube TV.