DirecTV isn’t the only programming service that will offer ESPN’s 3D coverage of World Cup Soccer beginning June 11; Comcast will do the same.
The nation’s largest cable company announced this morning that it has become the first cable operator to reach an agreement with ESPN 3D to deliver the live 3D programs to Comcast’s Digital Cable customers.
ESPN 3D has pledged to deliver nearly 100 events in its first year.
“This agreement demonstrates ESPN’s and Comcast’s shared commitment to bring the latest viewing experience to sports fans,” said George Bodenheimer, co-chairman, Disney Media Networks, and president, ESPN and ABC Sports.
“We delivered the first live national 3D sports event to consumers homes earlier this year with the Masters Tournament and believe that 3D sports will drive the adoption of this technology and continue to revolutionize how we deliver entertainment,” said Brian L. Roberts, chairman and CEO, Comcast Corporation.
In addition, Comcast and ESPN will provide customers access to select ESPN 3D events on VOD.
ESPN 3D will sign on the air June 11 with the first 2010 FIFA World Cup match featuring South Africa versus Mexico. ESPN 3D will feature up to 25 matches throughout the World Cup. Along with college football and NBA games, schedule highlights for the new network include:
X Games 16, July 28-Aug. 1
College basketball’s Old Spice Classic, Nov. 25-28
College football’s ACC Championship on Dec. 4
Jimmy V Classic on Dec. 7
2011 BCS National Championship game Jan. 10, 2011
X Games 15, Jan. 27-30, 2011
College basketball’s Big East Tournament, March 8-12, 2011
— by Scott Hettrick