10 Best Hesgoal Alternatives: Free + Safe Sport Streams (2024)

It can be really annoying when you're all set to watch your favorite team play, but Hesgoal goes down — again! Plus, there's the added worry of legality since Hesgoal isn't exactly on the right side of copyright laws, which could get you into trouble.

To avoid these issues, I've put together a list of 10 reliable and legal alternatives to Hesgoal. These options provide a broad array of streaming choices, so you won't have to deal with unexpected downtime or legal headaches. With my list, you'll get easy, free access to sports streaming, ensuring a smooth and worry-free viewing experience — no need to rely on Hesgoal anymore.

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.

Best Free Hesgoal Alternatives That Still Work in 2024

These platforms offer a diverse range of content accessible on a multitude of devices, catering to different preferences and needs.

1. ARD — Free Access to Sports Coverage of the Olympics and UEFA Champions League

ARD is your go-to for free, comprehensive coverage of European sports. Whether it’s the high-speed excitement of the Tour de France or the diversity of the Olympics, ARD has it all. We even watched Champions League qualifiers here without spending a dime.

There were not stutters or audio delays

The platform is user-friendly. You can tailor your viewing with the My Sports Show feature, keeping tabs on your favorite teams and sports. It also offers a neat section for game highlights, analysis, and upcoming event schedules. Fancy some updates? Opt in to get the latest news and special stories from the Sportschau team.

While an account isn't necessary to begin watching, registering improves your experience. You can create a cross-device watchlist, subscribe to sports podcasts, and receive tailored content suggestions. Additionally, for those on the go, most discussions are available in audio format. Remember, ARD broadcasts from Germany, focusing on local teams and players but also covering major international sports events.

2. BBC iPlayer — Stream Premier League, Wimbledon, and Other Sports in HD Ad-Free

BBC iPlayer offers live sports streaming up to full HD (1080p) quality. Additionally, some content on BBC iPlayer is available in Ultra High Definition (UHD) or 4K, especially for big events like the World Cup or Wimbledon. Even better, you can enjoy content on BBC iPlayer without ad interruptions.

What's great about iPlayer is the flexibility it offers. With the mobile app, it’s possible to tune in live or catch up on games whenever it suits you — something not available on platforms like Hesgoal. Navigating BBC iPlayer is a snap. You can sort through sports by what’s recent, featured, or even alphabetically, and it keeps track of your watched content across devices. Remember, though, that iPlayer does use your data to personalize recommendations.

It also lets you watch streams on large screens via screencast

Signing up is a breeze — just share your email, birthdate, and postal code and confirm you've got a UK TV license. Keep in mind that a reliable VPN makes it possible to watch BBC iPlayer in HD from anywhere.

3. SRF Sport — Your Go-To for Formula 1 and MotoGP with Exclusive Content

SRF Sport is the ultimate destination for motorsports enthusiasts in Switzerland, offering exclusive and extensive coverage of Formula 1 and MotoGP. Whether you're tuning in for high-speed races or following your favorite winter sports like skiing, SRF delivers top-notch live broadcasts and replays. Plus, football and ice hockey enthusiasts can enjoy comprehensive coverage of both local and international matches.

Therer's also a live schedule at the bottom that makes it easy to keep track of events

The platform makes it easy to personalize your sports viewing experience with features like watch later lists, favorites, and a history tracker — all without the need for registration. Just keep in mind that this personalized experience is cookie-dependent, so clearing your cookies will reset these features.

4. Channel 4 — Free Streaming of Formula 1, Paralympics, and More

Channel 4 offers a variety of sports for free, including Formula 1, Paralympic events, international football, and major horse racing events like the Grand National. You can also catch cricket matches, all available on devices such as PCs, smartphones, and smart TVs.

To get started, you'll need a UK IP address and to register an account with some basic information. While the service does include ads, it also allows you to manage privacy settings, such as turning off data collection and ad pairing. The platform features a Live TV Guide for notifications on upcoming events and parental controls to filter content access.

When you found your sports event, just click on the plus sign to add it to your list

5. RaiPlay — Enjoy Local Italian Matches and International Sports for Free

RaiPlay lets you enjoy Italian and international competitions in excellent quality for free. It’s Italy's top public broadcaster's online platform, offering a mix of Italian Serie A games, match analysis, and other sports content. In addition to domestic competitions, the service covers live streams of international cycling, motocross, swimming, football, and gymnastics events.

The streaming quality is excellent, with options for Full HD available. When using the service, I was surprised to learn that many streams let you switch to the original broadcasting language, usually English. Plus, there's a picture-in-picture mode for multitasking while watching games.

To return to RaiPlay's commentary, just untick the Originale option

While you don't need an account to use the service, having a RaiPlay account lets you create lists, set notifications, and even apply parental controls. It also allows you to access full replays and commentary broadcasts.

6. SBS On Demand — Enjoy Free Access to UEFA Champions League and More

As Australia's state-sponsored broadcaster, SBS On Demand offers a rich selection of sports content. From global events like football and athletics to local favorites such as rugby and motorsports, there’s something for every sports fan.

Creating an account boosts your experience, allowing you to use features like personalized watchlists and receive the Curator's Pick newsletter, which keeps you in the loop about new and exciting content as well as upcoming events. However, be aware that while signing up is free, it does mean you'll encounter some ads as you stream.

7. Servus TV — Stream MotoGP, Champions Hockey League, and Other Sports Without Registration

Servus TV offers free access to premier sports, featuring exclusive live coverage of MotoGP, Formula 1, and more. Enjoy in-depth analysis and behind-the-scenes insights without needing to register an account. Servus TV is also your go-to source for thrilling hockey matchups, especially from the Champions Hockey League. All live streams are available in HD, and replays are in Full HD. Just be prepared for occasional interruptions by ads.

8. RTL Play — Watch UEFA Europa League and F1 with On-Demand Flexibility

RTL Play brings you on-demand and live streaming of top-tier sports events like the UEFA Europa League and Formula 1. Part of the renowned RTL network, this platform offers a legal and high-quality alternative to services like Hesgoal. Enjoy a variety of sports, from football and MotoGP to basketball and more, along with a selection of captivating sports documentaries. Note that some content may require registration.\

9. CBC Gem — Enjoy Free Streaming of NHL Games, Olympics, and More

CBC Gem offers free, high-definition streaming of a wide range of sports events, including Olympics coverage and various national and international competitions. While the service does require registration, it's a straightforward process that needs only basic personal details. Note that while CBC Gem streams some NHL games, coverage may vary based on broadcasting rights.

10. Band — Live Stream Brazilian Football Matches and Local Sports for Free

As a major Brazilian television network, Band, also known as Rede Bandeirantes, offers a dedicated streaming service tailored to Portuguese and Brazilian audiences. The platform features a wide range of sports, including local and international football, Formula 1, combat sports, and NBA basketball. Completely free and without the need for registration, Band ensures sports fans can enjoy their favorite events hassle-free, but you need a Brazil IP.

Bonus Legal Streaming Platforms

Here are several other legal options that offer a safe and high-quality viewing experience:

• Polsat Box Go Sport. Primarily serves Polish audiences with a mix of sports, entertainment, and news. Typically requires a subscription.
• TV8. A Turkish channel providing a diverse lineup of sports, reality TV, and news. Some content is free, while other programming might require payment.
• 9Now. Offers live and on-demand access to sports and entertainment. Available at no cost in Australia but requires registration.
• Laola1. A global sports streaming service that features live and on-demand coverage of various sports, such as football, volleyball, and motorsports. Offers both free access and premium content for a fee.
• TNT Sports. Based in the UK, this service provides extensive coverage of combat sports like UFC and WWE. Offers a paid subscription but includes a free trial.
• Peacock. A US-based service featuring sports like Premier League, WWE, and golf. Enjoy a selection for free or upgrade to a paid plan for more content and fewer ads.
• Fubo TV. Known for its wide range of sports coverage, including NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, NASCAR, MLS, and more. Offers a 7-day free trial, with various subscription options afterward.

If you're looking for more options, consider local IPTV services, YouTube highlights, or Reddit football streams. Additionally, sports streaming platforms with pay-per-view services like ESPN+, UFC Fight Pass, and FITE TV are also worth checking out.

Quick Comparison Table: Hesgoal Alternative Sites

Why It’s Best Not to Use Sites Like Hesgoal

The original Hesgoal website was taken down by the US Department of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) for sharing copyrighted material. HSI seized the domain names of several popular sports streaming sites as part of a crackdown on illegal streaming of FIFA World Cup matches. Visitors to these seized domains were greeted with a banner stating:

Hesgoal lacked the rights to the sports streaming they offered

This highlights the legal risks of using unauthorized streaming sites, which often break copyright laws and can face serious consequences. However, legal troubles are just the beginning, as there are other reasons to avoid unauthorized platforms, including:

• Security threats. These platforms frequently host malicious ads, including pop-ups and redirects that could lead to phishing or malware infections. This compromises both your device's security and your personal data.
• Privacy risks. Hesgoal and similar sites often lack robust privacy policies, exposing user data to misuse or sale to third parties. Without adequate security measures, browsing history and personal information are vulnerable to exploitation.
• Quality and reliability issues. Streaming quality on these sites can be poor, with issues like low resolution and unsynchronized audio. Technical and legal problems can also cause frequent downtimes or sudden shutdowns, disrupting the viewing experience.
• Excessive advertising. These platforms are notorious for inundating users with intrusive ads and pop-ups, detracting from the viewing experience. Some ads may be difficult to close and lead to scams or inappropriate content, further diminishing enjoyment.

Tips on How to Safely Stream Hesgoal Alternatives

Exploring legal alternatives to Hesgoal not only ensures you stay on the right side of the law but also enhances your viewing experience. Here are some tips to help you stream sports safely:

• Use secure connections. Always use a secure and private internet connection when streaming. Public WiFi can be a hotbed for cyber threats. Consider using a VPN to encrypt your internet connection and protect your personal data.
• Read user reviews. Before subscribing to any service, check out reviews and feedback from other users. This can give you insights into the platform's reliability, video quality, and customer service.
• Beware of “too good to be true” offers. Be cautious of services that offer premium content for unreasonably low prices. These could be illegitimate and might put you at risk of fraud or malware.
• Update your security software. Keep your VPN, antivirus, and anti-malware software up to date to protect against any potential threats you might encounter while streaming.
• Be wary of personal information requests. Legitimate streaming services will not ask for excessive personal information. Be cautious if a site requests unnecessary details, such as your Social Security number or extensive financial information.
• Read the streaming platform's terms of service and privacy policies. This will help you understand what data is collected and how it is used.

FAQs on Best Hesgoal Alternatives

Is Hesgoal legal?

No, Hesgoal is not legal. It streams sports events without proper licensing, violating copyright laws. It's best to use licensed and legitimate platforms for streaming sports content. This is because using such sites can lead to legal consequences for both the operators and users.

Is Hesgoal safe?

No, it’s not. It may be collecting your information for profit, so it’s best to avoid using such sites. Worse yet, ads and pop-ups might lead to malicious sites or ransomware. It’s recommended to use legal alternatives instead.

Why is Hesgoal down?

The original Hesgoal website was taken down by the HSI for sharing copyrighted material. HSI stated that these actions were taken to prevent unauthorized third parties from financially benefiting from illegal broadcasts and to protect legitimate online corporations from "internet bandits" who exploit the online environment.

Can I watch the Premier League live for free on Hesgoal alternatives?

Yes, you can. BBC iPlayer streams the Premier League live. It also offers extensive highlights and analysis of the games, making it a good source for match summaries and in-depth coverage of key moments. A premium VPN makes it possible to watch Premier League live in HD from anywhere.

Do Hesgoal alternatives have ads?

Yes, many legal alternatives to Hesgoal do feature advertisements. Generally, platforms that provide free content tend to include ads to help fund the service. These ads are typically less intrusive and safer than those found on illegal streaming sites, aligning with the overall user experience that legal services aim to provide.

Conclusion

Finding a reliable, free sports streaming site might seem tough, but it's definitely doable. The 10 Hesgoal alternatives I've outlined offer a top-notch viewing experience tailored to sports fans. They're secure, free, and ready to keep you entertained throughout the year, all without the worries of legal troubles or annoying outages.

Each platform brings something special to the table, from live football matches and thrilling motorsports events to action-packed rugby games. There's a variety to suit every sports enthusiast. Dive into these options and enjoy your favorite sports without stressing over safety or costs.