The owners of the Detroit Tigers and Detroit Red Wings have established a new regional sports network named Detroit SportsNet to broadcast their games, marking a significant shift in local sports media. Ilitch Sports + Entertainment, the entity overseeing both teams, officially revealed the launch on Monday, March 2, 2026.
Broadcast Details and Launch Timeline
Detroit SportsNet is set to begin operations with Tigers games this year, followed by Red Wings games in the upcoming season. The network will be available across multiple platforms, including cable, satellite, and in-market streaming services, ensuring broad accessibility for fans in the Detroit area.
Background and Industry Changes
This move comes after recent developments in sports broadcasting. Last month, the Tigers announced that their local television broadcasts for this season would be produced and distributed by Major League Baseball, a decision that also applies to Red Wings games. Meanwhile, Red Wings games are currently expected to continue on FanDuel Sports Detroit through the end of the season.
However, professional sports teams with games on FanDuel networks have been exploring alternative options. This follows the termination of deals by the Tigers and other franchises after Main Street Sports Group, which operates the regional FanDuel Sports Network stations, failed to make scheduled rights payments.
Implications for Fans and the Market
The creation of Detroit SportsNet represents a strategic effort by Ilitch Sports + Entertainment to secure reliable and controlled broadcasting for their teams. This initiative aims to enhance fan experience by providing consistent coverage and potentially reducing disruptions caused by external network issues.
As regional sports networks face financial challenges, this new venture could set a precedent for other teams seeking to take greater control over their media rights and distribution channels.
