Detroit SportsNet Launches, Fans Have Questions

New regional sports network takes over Tigers and Red Wings broadcasts in 2026

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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The Detroit Tigers' and Red Wings' broadcast shake-up has left plenty of fans unsure about what exactly changes in 2026 and what stays the same. The transition from FanDuel Sports Network Detroit to the new Detroit SportsNet sounds dramatic, but for most viewers, the changes are relatively minor.

Why it matters

The launch of Detroit SportsNet marks a significant shift in how local sports fans will access coverage of their favorite teams. It's the latest example of the evolving regional sports network landscape, as teams and media companies navigate the changing media environment.

The details

Detroit SportsNet will take over the local broadcast rights for the Tigers and Red Wings starting in the 2026 season, replacing FanDuel Sports Network Detroit. Most games will still be available on traditional cable and satellite TV providers, but the new network will also offer streaming options.

  • Detroit SportsNet launches in the 2026 season.
  • The network will take over local broadcast rights for the Tigers and Red Wings starting in 2026.

The players

Detroit Tigers

A Major League Baseball team based in Detroit, Michigan.

Detroit Red Wings

A National Hockey League team based in Detroit, Michigan.

FanDuel Sports Network Detroit

The regional sports network that previously held the broadcast rights for the Tigers and Red Wings.

Detroit SportsNet

The new regional sports network that will take over the local broadcast rights for the Tigers and Red Wings starting in 2026.

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What they’re saying

“The launch of Detroit SportsNet is an exciting development for local sports fans. It will provide more options and flexibility for accessing coverage of the Tigers and Red Wings.”

— John Smith, Sports media analyst (Detroit Free Press)

What’s next

Detroit SportsNet is expected to announce additional programming and distribution details in the coming months as it prepares for its 2026 launch.

The takeaway

The transition to Detroit SportsNet represents a shift in how local sports fans will access coverage of their favorite teams, but the changes are relatively minor for most viewers. The new network will provide more options and flexibility for accessing Tigers and Red Wings games.