We review vendors based on rigorous testing and research but also take into account your feedback and our affiliate commission with providers. Some providers are owned by our parent company.
Learn more
vpnMentor was established in 2014 to review VPN services and cover privacy-related stories. Today, our team of hundreds of cybersecurity researchers, writers, and editors continues to help readers fight for their online freedom in partnership with Kape Technologies PLC, which also owns the following products: ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, and Private Internet Access which may be ranked and reviewed on this website. The reviews published on vpnMentor are believed to be accurate as of the date of each article, and written according to our strict reviewing standards that prioritize professional and honest examination of the reviewer, taking into account the technical capabilities and qualities of the product together with its commercial value for users. The rankings and reviews we publish may also take into consideration the common ownership mentioned above, and affiliate commissions we earn for purchases through links on our website. We do not review all VPN providers and information is believed to be accurate as of the date of each article.
Advertising Disclosure

vpnMentor was established in 2014 to review VPN services and cover privacy-related stories. Today, our team of hundreds of cybersecurity researchers, writers, and editors continues to help readers fight for their online freedom in partnership with Kape Technologies PLC, which also owns the following products: ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, and Private Internet Access which may be ranked and reviewed on this website. The reviews published on vpnMentor are believed to be accurate as of the date of each article, and written according to our strict reviewing standards that prioritize professional and honest examination of the reviewer, taking into account the technical capabilities and qualities of the product together with its commercial value for users. The rankings and reviews we publish may also take into consideration the common ownership mentioned above, and affiliate commissions we earn for purchases through links on our website. We do not review all VPN providers and information is believed to be accurate as of the date of each article.

How to Watch Sports for Free: Live Online Streams in 2024

Husain Parvez Updated on 6th October 2024 Fact-checked by Ryan Jones Cybersecurity Researcher

If you're a sports fan who hates missing out on live action, we've got some good news for you. Whether it's the thrill of a last-minute goal or the tension of a tiebreaker, platforms like 9Now, BBC iPlayer, and CBC let you stream major sporting events live without spending a dime.

However, there's a slight hurdle — geo-restrictions. These platforms are typically only accessible within certain countries. That being said, using a reliable VPN makes it possible to safely watch live sports for free from anywhere. VPNs mask your real IP address, making it appear as if you're connecting from a different location. They also secure your online activities and keep your ISP from throttling your speed.

After testing over 40 VPNs, the standout option for watching live sports is ExpressVPN. It offers excellent speeds for buffer-free streaming and a vast network of reliable worldwide servers. Better yet, with its 30-day money-back guarantee, you can try ExpressVPN without risk. If it doesn't live up to your expectations, getting a refund is hassle-free. Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

Watch Sports for Free in HD >>

Quick Guide: How to Watch Sports for Free With a VPN in 3 Easy Steps

  1. Download a VPN. I recommend ExpressVPN as it's the fastest VPN for streaming live sports in UHD interruption-free. It’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it with confidence.
  2. Connect to a server. For the best speeds and streaming quality, connect to a server near your location.
  3. Start streaming. Log in to your preferred streaming service like 9Now and securely watch live sports from anywhere without restrictions.
Be advised. The VPN services recommended below have strict no-log policies that prevent them from tracking your online activities. This means you’re responsible for how you choose to use the VPN, so please make sure you follow any applicable laws and regulations. My colleagues at vpnMentor and I do not condone copyright infringement.

Short on Time? Here Are the Best VPNs for Watching Sports Free in 2024

  • Editor's Choice
    ExpressVPN
    ExpressVPN
    Excellent speeds and reliable servers to safely stream live sports in HD from anywhere.
    70% of our readers choose ExpressVPN
  • CyberGhost VPN
    CyberGhost
    Streaming-optimized servers for a smooth, interruption-free live sports experience.
  • Private Internet Access
    Private Internet Access
    Unlimited connections to securely watch live sports on all your devices.

Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

How to Watch Live Sports for Free With a VPN

Tuning into live sports without reaching for your wallet is simpler than you might think, especially with platforms like 9Now that offer free streaming of various sports events. This approach works similarly for other sports streaming services around the globe, so you don’t have to miss a match, no matter where you are.

Step 1. Download a VPN

To begin streaming live sports securely from anywhere in HD, first download a VPN. You can go to the VPN provider's website on your computer or search for their app in the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. I recommend ExpressVPN for its impressive speeds and reliable servers worldwide. It’s also straightforward to use on any device.

Screenshot of ExpressVPN's homepageYou can try ExpressVPN risk-free, thanks to a trustworthy money-back guarantee

Step 2. Connect to a Server

Choose a server. ExpressVPN boasts fast and reliable servers in many countries.

Screenshot of ExpressVPN's serversExpressVPN allows you to connect to specific cities within selected countries

Step 3. Select a Streaming Platform

I'll be using 9Now, but feel free to choose your preferred streaming platform. If you have chosen 9Now as well, head over to their website and click on Upcoming & Live Sports to find the event you want to watch.

Screenshot of 9Now home pageYou can also use the search button to look for a specific event
Note: Accessing the live sports section may vary depending on the website. The easiest way to find a specific live sports event is by using the search bar or checking the home page for direct links to upcoming or live games.

Step 4. Create an Account

To start watching live sports, simply sign up for an account. It's quick and free — just enter your email, set a password, and verify your account.

 Screenshot of 9Now sign-in pageActivate your 9Now account with the six digit verification code sent to your email

Step 5. Stream in HD

You’re ready to safely stream live sports for free from anywhere. Once you're on the streaming platform, it’s crucial to know when to tune in, so check the schedule for live telecasts of the sports event.

Screenshot of playing content on 9NowIf you have any issues, try clearing cookies and turning off your VPN's ad blocker

Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

Where Can I Watch Free Sports Online?

It can be challenging to find free and legal sports streaming platforms — there are many dodgy sites out there which are plagued with ads, pop-ups, and potential security risks like malware and phishing links. To keep your streaming experience safe and enjoyable, here's a list of reliable, free, and legitimate streaming platforms:

Streaming Platform Regional Availability Sports Covered
10 Play Australia Soccer, Bellator, Basketball, MotoGP, Horse Racing, Formula 1, and more
7Plus Australia Badminton, AFL, Table Tennis, Soccer, Horse Racing, Football (NFL), Cricket, Commonwealth Games, Golf, Track and Field, and more
9Now Australia Basketball, Rugby, Swimming, Tennis, Golf, and more
ARD Germany Handball, Soccer, Skiing, and more
BBC iPlayer UK Boxing, Figure Skating, Rugby, Soccer, Bellator, Basketball, Tennis, and more
CBC Canada Rugby, Ice Hockey, Figure Skating, Track and Field, Skiing, Cycling, Swimming, Curling, Basketball, Commonwealth Games, and more
Channel 4 UK Formula 1, Rugby, Soccer, and more
DRTV Denmark Soccer, Skiing, Handball, Track and Field, Cycling, Basketball, and more
France TV France Handball, Track and Field, Soccer, Tennis, Swimming, Rugby, and more
ITVX UK Tennis, Horse Racing, Rugby, Soccer, Darts, Football (NFL), All Elite Wrestling (AEW), and more
Masters.com US Golf
(the Masters Tournament)
My 5 UK Boxing, Football (NFL), WWE, and more
NOS Netherlands Formula 1, Cycling, and more
Peacock TV US Only selected live sports events, like some live games from the Premier League
RTBF Auvio Belgium Soccer, Cycling, Motorsports, Athletics, Tennis, Basketball, and more
RTÉ Player Ireland Gaelic Games, Soccer, Rugby, Horse Racing, and more
SVT Play Sweden Olympic Games, Ice Hockey, Skiing, Winter Sports, and more
RaiPlay Italy Soccer, Cycling, Tennis, Motorsports, Athletics, and more
SBS On Demand Australia Soccer, Cycling, Basketball, and more
Servus TV Austria MotoGP, Ice Hockey, Red Bull Sports Events, Tennis, and more

Best VPNs for Watching Free Sports Online in 2024

To stream live sports for free without buffering, you need more than just a basic VPN. Our top choices make it possible to safely swatch many live sports streaming platforms from anywhere. They also provide money-back guarantees, so you can try them risk-free.

Lowest Price Server Network Device Support Device Connections Refund Period
🥇ExpressVPN $6.67/month 3,000 servers in 105 countries Windows, Mac, Android, iPhone, Roku, Fire Stick, smart TVs, routers, and more 8 30 days
🥈CyberGhost $2.19/month 11,690 servers in 100 countries Windows, Mac, Android, iPhone, Roku, Fire Stick, smart TVs, routers, and more 7 45 days
🥉PIA $2.19/month 29,650 servers in 91 countries Windows, Mac, Android, iPhone, Roku, Fire Stick, smart TVs, routers, and more Unlimited 30 days

1. ExpressVPN — Impressive Speeds for Watching Live Sports in HD Without Buffering

Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

ExpressVPN is the fastest VPN we tested for watching live sports in UHD. Our average download speed dropped by only 5%. This is impressive compared to other VPNs, which can slow you down by more than 50%. Plus, thanks to unlimited bandwidth, you can stream as much as you want without hitting data caps.

An extensive server network makes it possible to safely watch live sports for free from anywhere. The only drawback is that the subscriptions can be quite expensive. Luckily, ExpressVPN often runs generous discounts, and with its trustworthy 30-day money-back guarantee, you can try it risk-free.

ExpressVPN Offer October 2024: For a limited time only, you can get an ExpressVPN subscription for up to 48% off! Don't miss out!

ExpressVPN Pros, Cons, and Needed Improvements
  • Fastest speeds of the VPNs we've tested
  • Works reliably with global platforms
  • Industry-leading privacy protection
  • More expensive than some VPNs

2. CyberGhost — Streaming-Optimized Servers to Reliably Watch Live Sports From Anywhere

Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as CyberGhost VPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

CyberGhost’s streaming-optimized servers are designed specifically for uninterrupted streaming, making it perfect for watching live sports from anywhere. The VPN offers dedicated servers for platforms like 10Play, 9Now, ARD, BBC iPlayer, CBC, Channel 4, DRTV, France TV, and more.

In our tests, we got download speeds well above 25Mbps needed for UHD streaming. The only drawback is that the monthly cost can be a bit high. That said, you can get the long-term plans for just $2.19/month.

October 2024 Deal: CyberGhost is currently offering 83% off its most popular plan! Take advantage of this offer now and save more on your CyberGhost subscription.
CyberGhost VPN Pros, Cons, and Needed Improvements
  • Specialty servers based on activity
  • Security essentials; plus bonus options
  • Intuitive and user-friendly apps
  • Expensive short-term plan
  • Can't get past the strongest firewalls

3. Private Internet Access — Unlimited Connections to Safely Watch Live Sports on All Your Devices

Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process.

PIA allows you to connect an unlimited number of devices simultaneously, making it ideal for households with multiple devices. When testing PIA, we were able to stream live sports on 7 devices at once without any interruptions.

Sadly, the PIA app might seem a bit complex to use. But worry not, as the default settings are already optimized for HD streaming. You can get PIA for as low as $2.19/month.

October 2024 Update: PIA doesn't usually have deals or discounts (it's already so affordable), but right now you can get a new subscription for a crazy 82% off!
Private Internet Access Pros, Cons, and Needed Improvements
  • Massive network of servers worldwide
  • Many customizable security settings
  • Unlimited simultaneous devices
  • Tricky for beginners to navigate
  • Based in the US

Our Methodology for Testing VPNs for Watching Sports Online

We carefully tested each VPN to ensure it meets the needs of sports fans. Our process focused on speed, connection stability, and how well each VPN works with popular sports streaming platforms. We also looked at server variety, device compatibility, customer support, pricing, and money-back guarantees.

Our VPN suggestions are based on a rigorous and objective analysis process. For more details on how we test VPNs, check out our testing methodology page.

Looking for the perfect VPN to stream live sports for free smoothly on your favorite device? Take a peek at our detailed VPN guides, tailored for all your go-to gadgets:

FAQs on Watching Sports for Free

Is it legal to stream sports for free with a VPN?

Yes, VPNs are legal in most countries. After all, they are tools for keeping your online activities private and secure. Quality VPNs let you safely stream live sports from anywhere. However, some countries (like China and Russia) ban or restrict VPN use, so always check the laws and regulations for your location to avoid accidentally breaking the rules.

Are live sports free on Amazon Prime?

Amazon Prime occasionally includes access to live sports as part of its subscription service. If you don't have access to Amazon Prime, check other platforms that let you watch live sports for free.

Prime members have access to a selection of sports content, which can vary by region. For example:

  • In the US, Amazon Prime offers live streams of NFL Thursday Night Football games and other sports events.
  • In the UK, Prime members can watch live Premier League soccer matches, ATP Tour tennis events, and other sports.

Is Stream2Watch illegal?

Yes, Stream2Watch is illegal as it shows sports content without proper licensing. Using this platform can also expose you to privacy risks, which is why it’s recommended to use a legit, free sports streaming platform instead.

What are the free sports streaming apps?

Several apps like 9Now and BBC iPlayer allow you to legally stream sports for free. You can also check out SBS On Demand and Peacock. A reliable VPN makes it possible to safely access sports streaming apps anywhere.

Will a VPN help me avoid a sports blackout?

Yes, a VPN can avoid sports blackouts. By changing your IP address to a different location where the blackout doesn't apply, a quality VPN can allow access to the sports event. However, be advised that such an action may break the terms and conditions of the relevant streaming service and potentially copyright law.

Can I watch Fox Sports online without cable for free?

Watching Fox Sports online without a cable subscription for free is difficult, as it typically requires access through a paid service. However, you can explore free trial options from streaming platforms that include Fox Sports, like Hulu + Live TV or YouTube TV. Just remember to cancel the trial before it ends to avoid charges. You can also try to find the sports event you’re interested in on another free sports streaming platform.

Can I use a free VPN to live stream sports?

Possibly, but it’s not recommended. Most free VPNs don’t offer the speed and reliability needed for live sports streaming. They often have limited servers and data caps, which prevent you from accessing the content you need. A better alternative is to use a premium VPN with a trustworthy money-back guarantee.

To summarize, these are the best VPNs for watching live sports for free anywhere…

Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

Rank
Provider
Our Score
Discount
Visit Website
1
medal
9.9 /10
9.9 Our Score
Save 48%!
2
9.7 /10
9.7 Our Score
Save 83%!
3
9.5 /10
9.5 Our Score
Save 82%!
Privacy Alert!

Your data is exposed to the websites you visit!

Your IP Address:

Your Location:

Your Internet Provider:

The information above can be used to track you, target you for ads, and monitor what you do online.

VPNs can help you hide this information from websites so that you are protected at all times. We recommend ExpressVPN — the #1 VPN out of over 350 providers we've tested. It has military-grade encryption and privacy features that will ensure your digital security, plus — it's currently offering 48% off.

Visit ExpressVPN

We review vendors based on rigorous testing and research but also take into account your feedback and our affiliate commission with providers. Some providers are owned by our parent company.
Learn more
vpnMentor was established in 2014 to review VPN services and cover privacy-related stories. Today, our team of hundreds of cybersecurity researchers, writers, and editors continues to help readers fight for their online freedom in partnership with Kape Technologies PLC, which also owns the following products: ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, and Private Internet Access which may be ranked and reviewed on this website. The reviews published on vpnMentor are believed to be accurate as of the date of each article, and written according to our strict reviewing standards that prioritize professional and honest examination of the reviewer, taking into account the technical capabilities and qualities of the product together with its commercial value for users. The rankings and reviews we publish may also take into consideration the common ownership mentioned above, and affiliate commissions we earn for purchases through links on our website. We do not review all VPN providers and information is believed to be accurate as of the date of each article.

About the Author

Husain Parvez is a Cybersecurity Researcher and News Writer at vpnMentor, focusing on VPN reviews, detailed how-to guides, and hands-on tutorials. Husain is also a part of the vpnMentor Cybersecurity News bulletin and loves covering the latest events in cyberspace and data privacy.

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