DirecTV confirmed it will launch ESPN 3D for the 2010 FIFA World Cup matches starting in June. At the same time the company named the linear 3D channel “N3D” — one of three DirecTV-planned 3D channels. FIFA 2010 debuts with South Africa versus Mexico on June 11, and will continue with up to 25 matches.
ESPN announced back in January they would broadcast at least 85 live sport events during its first year which includes X Games 16, the 2010 college football ACC Championship, the 2011 BCS National Championship, college basketball and NBA games in 2011.
“We are excited to be the first and only distributor to announce the launch of ESPN 3D and we look forward to announcing additional 3D partners throughout the year,” said Eric Shanks, executive vice president, DIRECTV Entertainment.
