Major League Rugby Elevates Game Day with “Sunday Night Rugby” and Broadcast Investments
Major League Rugby (MLR) is making a significant push to elevate its profile in the North American sports landscape with the launch of “Sunday Night Rugby” in 2026. This dedicated primetime broadcast, coupled with a robust lineup of on-air talent, signals a new era for the league and its ambition to become a consistent appointment viewing option for sports fans.
A New Broadcast Era for North American Rugby
“Sunday Night Rugby” represents the first dedicated primetime rugby production in the U.S., streaming on ESPN+. The broadcasts will combine in-studio analysis with live game coverage, featuring a pregame demonstrate, in-stadium broadcast crew, and a postgame studio show. A select number of broadcasts will similarly air on ESPN2, further expanding the league’s reach.
Meet the Voices of the Game
MLR has assembled a diverse and experienced broadcast team for the 2026 season. Key figures include Will Hooley as In-Studio Host, Claudia Bellofatto as an In-Studio Analyst, and Ben Holden returning as Play-by-Play Commentator. Brianna Kim will serve as an Analyst/Reporter, bringing a unique perspective as part of the league’s first all-female broadcast crew in 2023. Additional talent includes Dallen Stanford, Alex Corbisiero, Christian Dyer, Alycia Washington, Joey Lindstrom, Mike Petri, and Marc Stcherbina.
Strategic Partnership with OS Studios
Underpinning this broadcast expansion is a multi-year partnership with OS Studios. This collaboration designates OS Studios as the league’s primary engine for broadcast production, social media content, and overall fan engagement strategy. This partnership aims to redefine the North American sports landscape and disrupt traditional sports models.
The 2026 “Sunday Night Rugby” Schedule
The initial schedule for “Sunday Night Rugby” includes nine regular-season broadcasts, culminating in coverage of the MLR Playoff Semifinals and Championship. Featured matchups include California Legion at Chicago Hounds (April 12), and a Sunday Showcase doubleheader on April 19 featuring Chicago Hounds vs. New England Free Jacks in Nashville, Tennessee, and Seattle Seawolves at California Legion.
Looking Ahead: MLR’s Vision for Growth
The introduction of “Sunday Night Rugby” is part of MLR’s broader strategy to shape the future of rugby in the US and North America. The league aims to become the most accessible and community-driven sports league by 2035, leveraging the growing interest in rugby ahead of the 2031 and 2033 Rugby World Cups, which will be hosted in the US.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is “Sunday Night Rugby”?
“Sunday Night Rugby” is a dedicated primetime broadcast on ESPN+ featuring Major League Rugby matches, analysis, and storytelling.
Where can I watch “Sunday Night Rugby”?
“Sunday Night Rugby” will stream on ESPN+, with select broadcasts also airing on ESPN2.
Who are some of the key broadcasters for the 2026 season?
Will Hooley, Claudia Bellofatto, and Ben Holden are among the key broadcasters for the 2026 season.
What is the significance of the partnership with OS Studios?
OS Studios will be the league’s primary engine for broadcast production, social media content, and fan engagement.
Will all MLR matches be available to watch?
Yes, all MLR matches, including “Sunday Night Rugby” broadcasts, will be streamed live on ESPN+.
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