How to Watch Sports for Free: Live Online Streams in 2025

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 >>

Short on Time? Here Are the Best VPNs for Watching Sports Free in 2025

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.

You 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.

ExpressVPN 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.

You can also use the search button to look for a specific event

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.

Activate 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.

If 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:

Best VPNs for Watching Free Sports Online in 2025

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.

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

Editor’s Choice Editor’s Choice Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
Tested January 2025

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ Dazn FIFA+

Netflix Disney+ APV More

Try ExpressVPN >

www.expressvpn.com

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.

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

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ Dazn FIFA+

Netflix Disney+ APV More

Try CyberGhost VPN >

www.cyberghostvpn.com

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 $2.03/month.

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

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ FIFA+ Netflix

Disney+ APV More

Try Private Internet Access >

www.privateinternetaccess.com

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 $2.03/month.

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.

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.

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