Fox Sports Networks

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Fox-Sports-Net-Logo

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Fox Sports Networks (FSN) was a collective name for a group of regional sports networks in the United States. The networks were originally owned by News Corporation and later by 21st Century Fox, before being acquired by The Walt Disney Company in 2019. However, due to antitrust concerns, Disney was required to sell the networks, which were subsequently acquired by Sinclair Broadcast Group and rebranded as Bally Sports in 2021.

History[edit | edit source]

Fox Sports Networks was established in 1996, following News Corporation's acquisition of several regional sports networks. The goal was to create a national brand for regional sports broadcasting, providing local sports coverage under a unified banner.

Acquisition by Disney[edit | edit source]

In 2017, Disney announced its intention to acquire 21st Century Fox, including the Fox Sports Networks. The acquisition was completed in 2019, but Disney was required to divest the regional sports networks to comply with antitrust regulations.

Sale to Sinclair Broadcast Group[edit | edit source]

In 2019, Sinclair Broadcast Group, in partnership with Entertainment Studios, acquired the Fox Sports Networks from Disney. The networks were rebranded as Bally Sports in 2021, following a naming rights agreement with Bally's Corporation.

Programming[edit | edit source]

Fox Sports Networks provided coverage of local sports teams, including Major League Baseball (MLB), National Basketball Association (NBA), and National Hockey League (NHL) games. The networks also aired college sports, high school sports, and other regional sports programming.

Rebranding to Bally Sports[edit | edit source]

The rebranding to Bally Sports marked a significant shift in the identity of the networks. The new branding aimed to integrate sports betting and gaming elements into the broadcasts, reflecting the growing trend of legalized sports betting in the United States.