Microsoft ditches ESPN for Fox

SEATTLE: Microsoft Corp. said that it will begin offering sports news and content from Fox Sports on its MSN Internet portal this summer, replacing its longtime sports news partner ESPN.

The world's largest software maker, whose MSN portal draws in 350 million visitors a month, will be able to offer more customized news and information, along with video clips by tying up with Fox Sports, part of News Corp. Ltd.'s Fox Entertainment Group Inc. unit.

ESPN, the Walt Disney Co.-owned cable sports network, will continue to be featured on MSN's home page until MSN's news service with Fox Sports launches on July 1.

All MSN users will be able to access content such as the 2004 MLB All Star Game, 2004 NFL season and 2005 Super Bowl and also user to personalize content, said Yusuf Mehdi, vice president in charge of information services at MSN.

Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

© Reuters