UC Irvine Athletics Expands Global Broadcast Access
September 30, 2026 | Athletics
New broadcast capabilities bring Anteater home events to fans, families and alumni around the world
IRVINE, Calif. -- UC Irvine Athletics is expanding the reach of Anteater competition around the world, launching international streaming access for select home events beginning with the 2026-27 season.
To support the expanded international distribution, UCI Athletics has enhanced its broadcast setup to make select home events available to viewers around the world.
The expansion builds upon UCI's existing ESPN+ broadcast operation and extends the department's live event coverage to audiences across the globe. The Big West produces more than 1,200 live athletic events annually across its member institutions, with participating schools now able to distribute select broadcasts internationally.
"UC Irvine has a global community, and we want Anteater Athletics to reflect that reach," UCI Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Paula Smith said. "This initiative allows us to bring our student-athletes and programs to more people around the world while creating another connection point for our alumni, families and fans. Expanding access to our broadcasts is an important part of how we continue to grow the UCI Athletics brand."
International distribution will vary by location. Fans throughout Europe, Asia, Africa, Oceania, the Middle East, Canada and other eligible territories will be able to watch participating UCI events live and on demand through BigWest.org/Watch. Latin America and the Caribbean will continue to receive coverage through Disney+ International, while domestic U.S. broadcasts remain exclusively available through ESPN+.
The expanded access is particularly meaningful for UCI's international student-athletes, giving family and friends abroad more opportunities to follow their careers in Irvine. Big West Commissioner Dan Butterly highlighted that connection in announcing the conference's international distribution platform, noting the expanded access it provides to those who supported international student-athletes before they arrived on campus.
Fans accessing broadcasts through BigWest.org/Watch can select from annual ($129.99), monthly ($12.99) or 24-hour ($6.99) subscription options.
HOW TO WATCH
United States: ESPN+
Latin America & Caribbean: Disney+ International
Other international territories: BigWest.org/Watch
Additional information, including subscription options and international availability, is available at BigWest.org/Watch.
