Roku is a prominent streaming platform that hosts a variety of entertaining content, be it movies, TV shows, or documentaries. However, a majority of Roku users visit the platform primarily for streaming sports. Roku provides coverage of all major sports, including football, hockey, rugby, cricket, and many more.
Unfortunately, Roku is bound by regional limitations. The platform abides by strict licensing agreements that prevent it from being accessible outside the US and a few other regions. As such, you will need PureVPN’s help to bypass regional hurdles and watch live sports on Roku in 2025.
Steps to Watch Live Sports on Roku in 2025 for Free
Follow these steps to watch live sports on Roku without limitations:
Simply follow the steps below:
- Subscribe to PureVPN app.
- Configure our VPN service on your router.
- Select to a US server.
- Connect your Roku to your Wi-Fi network.
- Open your desired streaming app and log in or sign up.
- Watch Live Sports on Roku
Why You Should Use a VPN to Stream Sports on Roku
You need a VPN to stream sports on Roku due to regional content limitations. Roku follows strict licensing and copyright laws that make it inaccessible outside the US and a few other countries. If someone attempts to access Roku directly in an unsupported region, they will simply face an error message on the screen.
PureVPN overcomes such regional content hurdles easily. It connects the user’s device to a server in the US, effectively masking their real IP address and replacing it with one from the US. As such, the user appears to be present in the US while streaming sports on Roku outside the US.
Do VPNs Work on Roku Devices?
Yes, VPNs work on Roku devices, but not directly. Roku doesn’t have native VPN support, which means you’ll need workarounds like connecting Roku to a VPN-enabled router or sharing a VPN connection from your laptop. This way, you can bypass geo-blocks and stream live sports or other content from different regions while keeping your connection secure.
However, relying on just any VPN isn’t safe. Many free VPNs leak user data to third parties without consent, putting your privacy at serious risk. In contrast, PureVPN is a safer and more reliable choice. With a strict No-Logs policy and military-grade encryption, PureVPN ensures that your data stays private, and once you log off, all personal information is wiped from the servers.
The Best Sports Channels on Roku
Roku hosts a rich variety of sports streaming channels. They cater to fans of all major sports from across the globe. Here are some of the sports channels available on the Roku Channel Store:
ESPN+
ESPN Unlimited is ESPN’s all‑new direct‑to‑consumer streaming platform, consolidating comprehensive sports coverage in one hub. It includes extensive live programming from all ESPN networks, including Monday Night Football, SportsCenter, plus thousands of live events across major leagues. Two standalone subscription tiers are available: one at $11.99/month and another at $29.99/month. Additionally, ESPN Select (the rebranded ESPN+) continues to offer original content like NHL games, PGA golf, tennis, WNBA, and exclusive UFC events.
Fubo
Fubo, originally launched as a soccer-focused platform, has evolved into a comprehensive sports-first live TV streaming service that’s available on Roku. Its base plans provide access to over 200 traditional TV channels, including ESPN, FS1, NFL Network, and local and regional sports networks. Pricing starts at approximately $84.99/month for the Essential or Pro plan.
Hulu + Live TV
Hulu + Live TV is a hybrid package combining live TV and Hulu’s on-demand library. You can access major sports networks such as ESPN, FS1, CBS Sports Network, ACC Network, SEC Network, and more, along with Hulu Originals and unlimited cloud DVR. Hulu offers its Ad-supported plan for $82.99/month, whereas the Ad-free Hulu on-demand + Live TV plan costs $95.99/month.
Fox Sports
Fox Sports content is delivered through platforms like fubo and Hulu + Live TV, which carry FS1, FS2, and select regional sports networks, not via a standalone Fox Sports subscription app on Roku. More recently, Fox launched Fox One, a broader streaming service encompassing FS1, FS2, NFL, MLB, and entertainment content, priced at $19.99/month or $199.99/year, with bundling options with ESPN and Fox Nation.
Bally Sports
Previously known as Bally Sports+, FanDuel Sports Network offers a direct-to-consumer streaming option that lets in-market fans watch their local regional sports network (RSN) without needing cable. It’s available via Roku and costs $19.99/month or $189.99/year (≈$15.83/month when prepaid).
Sling TV
Sling TV offers Roku users a budget-friendly way to watch live sports, providing access to major sports channels like ESPN, NFL Network, and NBC Sports. With its flexible plans, users can customize their sports packages to include only the channels they need, such as adding extras for college sports or international events. Sling’s affordable subscription options and flexible setup make it a practical solution for fans looking to enjoy live sports without the commitment of traditional cable, all from the convenience of Roku.
YouTube TV
YouTube TV brings extensive live sports coverage to Roku, featuring major channels like ESPN, Fox Sports, and NBC Sports. Known for its unlimited DVR feature, it’s perfect for fans who want to record games and re-watch them anytime.
YouTube TV also includes regional sports networks, providing comprehensive coverage of local and national events. From major leagues to college sports, YouTube TV’s offerings make it ideal for dedicated sports fans, offering high-quality streams and a seamless viewing experience on Roku.
Peacock
NBCUniversal’s Peacock offers a sports‑focused tier that includes live coverage of premier events like the Tour de France, Premier League soccer, boxing, darts championships, World Aquatics events, track and field, Royal Ascot, rugby’s Six Nations, and more. Peacock Premium (with ads) costs $7.99/month or $79.99/year, while the ad‑free Premium Plus tier is priced at $13.99/month or $139.99/year.
CBS Sports App
The CBS Sports Network is accessible via Roku primarily through live TV bundles like fubo, Hulu + Live TV, and others, rather than being a standalone paid app. It provides 24/7 sports news, analysis, and live events and is included in broader packages like Hulu + Live TV, fubo, and similar services. So while there’s no standalone CBS Sports subscription, it’s bundled within those larger live TV platforms.
Paramount+
Paramount+ offers live sports as part of its streaming service. Sports coverage includes NFL games, NCAA basketball (March Madness), UEFA Champions League, golf (The Masters, PGA), and more. Starting in 2026, UFC events will stream exclusively on the platform.
Pricing tiers include Essential (with ads) and Premium (includes CBS Live, Showtime, fewer ads, downloads). The Essential plan costs $7.99/month or $59.99/year, while the Premium plan costs $12.99/month or $119.99/year.
FloSports
FloSports focuses on niche and amateur sports, offering live coverage of events such as wrestling, cheerleading, and MMA. Designed for Roku users interested in sports outside the mainstream, FloSports provides a unique viewing experience with extensive coverage of these sports.
The channel also includes event replays and behind-the-scenes content, making it perfect for dedicated fans. With its exclusive focus on alternative sports, FloSports is an exceptional option for those who enjoy a variety of sports content beyond major leagues.
F1TV
F1 TV Pro is the dedicated streaming service for Formula 1. It offers live F1 races, in-car camera feeds, replays, F2 and F3 coverage, and exclusive content. Many users report a price of about $10/month in the US. Notably, regional pricing varies significantly, for example, Reddit users have reported €7.99/month in Serbia, $8.99/month in Colombia, and €139.99/year in some European countries.
DAZN
DAZN is a global sports streaming service available on Roku, offering live and on‑demand access to boxing, MMA, and other sports. In the US, pricing options include $29.99/month for a flexible plan or $224.99/year for an annual pass, equating to savings over monthly billing.
In European markets, DAZN offers tiered plans, such as “SUPER SPORTS” (€24.99/month), “UNLIMITED” (€44.99/month), or cheaper annual installment options (e.g. €19.99/month).
NBC Sports
NBC Sports content is now incorporated into Peacock, NBCUniversal’s streaming platform. Peacock carries major sports, including Premier League soccer, Sunday Night Football, WWE, and more.
Additionally, regional sports networks like NBC Sports Bay Area and California are available as add-ons for fans in those markets, at $17.95/month each on top of a Peacock Premium subscription.
Securely Watch Live Sports on Roku with PureVPN
PureVPN offers secure, seamless access to live sports on Roku by getting rid of location blocks, allowing you to enjoy international sports channels safely. With encryption and privacy protection, PureVPN safeguards your data while preventing ISP throttling, which can improve streaming quality.
Connect PureVPN via a router or laptop for uninterrupted, reliable access to sports content on Roku from anywhere. This setup lets you watch your favorite teams live while keeping your online activities private and secure through our VPN for sports.
Free Sports Channels on Roku
Roku also offers access to several free sports streaming channels. Most of them are based in the US. And some of them are merely free tiers of existing paid sports channels on Roku. Here are the best free sports channels on Roku:
| Channel Name | Description | Origin Country |
| Roku Sports Channel | Roku’s in-house FAST hub featuring MLB games, Formula E, X Games, and more | USA |
| NFL Channel | Classic NFL games, analysis, and news content | USA |
| NBA Channel / NBA Fast | NBA highlights, fast-format content, occasional full games | USA |
| MLB Channel | Classic and live baseball coverage, highlights | USA |
| NBC Sports | Talk shows and sports commentary from NBCUniversal | USA |
| Fox Sports | News and highlights from FS1/FS2, with some studio shows | USA |
| CBS Sports HQ | 24/7 streaming of sports scores, news, and live commentary | USA |
| ACC Digital Network | College sports programming from the Atlantic Coast Conference | USA |
| BeIN Sports Xtra | Free tier of international BeIN network; includes soccer and fight sports | Qatar (HQ), 🇺🇸 USA operations |
| Fubo Sports Network | Fubo’s ad-supported FAST network with news, talk shows, and highlights | USA |
| GolfPass | Golf-focused content, including tips, documentaries, and highlights | USA |
| PickleballTV (PBTV) | Live events and replays from professional pickleball leagues | USA |
| HBCU Go Sports | College sports from historically Black colleges and universities | USA |
| Swerve Combat | Combat sports-focused channel with events and replays | USA |
| FIFA+ | International soccer coverage, including replays and documentaries | Switzerland (FIFA HQ) |
| ESPN8 The Ocho | Humorous take on obscure and quirky sports (originated from an ESPN event) | USA |
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Roku supports many apps and streaming services that offer live sports, including NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, college sports, and more.
Yes, ESPN+ is fully supported on Roku. Just install the ESPN app and sign in with your ESPN+ account.
No, many services like ESPN+, Paramount+, Peacock, and fuboTV let you watch live sports without cable. Just subscribe directly through the Roku Channel Store.
Yes, major platforms like ESPN, Fox Sports, and CBS Sports carry NCAA events. Streaming services like Hulu + Live TV and YouTube TV also include access to college sports channels.
Yes, RSNs like Bally Sports, YES Network, and others may be available through apps or services like fuboTV or DIRECTV STREAM, depending on your location.
Connect Roku to a VPN-enabled network to access content from other regions. This approach allows you to unlock content available in specific countries by bypassing geographical restrictions.
For NFL games, Roku users will find reliable live coverage on Fox Sports and ESPN. Both channels offer high-quality streaming and regularly broadcast NFL games, making them top choices for football fans.
Yes, Peacock provides more than just EPL coverage. Alongside live soccer, it offers movies, shows, and other sports events, making it a versatile streaming choice on Roku for broader entertainment.
PureVPN is excellent for Roku as it provides strong encryption a reliable connection, and effectively bypasses regional blocks. This combination ensures secure, high-quality access to global streaming content.
Yes, PureVPN can help enhance streaming quality by reducing ISP throttling, which often slows streaming speeds. With PureVPN, users can experience smoother, uninterrupted viewing on Roku.
