CUPERTINO, CA – February 23, 2026 – Apple has released version 3.8 of its Apple Sports app, significantly expanding its football coverage with the addition of several new leagues and enhanced features for NCAA tournament tracking. The update, available now for iPhone users, aims to provide a more comprehensive experience for football fans globally, building on the app’s existing offerings for leagues like the NFL, Premier League and Bundesliga.
The latest iteration of Apple Sports focuses on delivering real-time scores, stats, and play-by-play updates directly to users’ iPhones and Apple Watches via Live Activities, a feature introduced with iOS 18 and watchOS 11. This allows fans to stay connected to their favorite teams and leagues without needing to constantly check the app. The app also offers customizable views, allowing users to prioritize the information most important to them.
Expanded Football Coverage: A Deeper Dive
The most notable addition in version 3.8 is the expanded support for football leagues, particularly in Latin America. Apple Sports now includes live coverage and data for the following competitions:
- Campeonato Brasileiro Série A (Brazil)
- Categoría Primera A (Colombia)
- Liga de Primera (Chile)
- Liga Pro (Ecuador)
- Liga Profesional de Fútbol (Argentina)
- Primera División del Perú (Peru)
This expansion caters to a growing audience of football fans in these regions, providing them with a dedicated platform to follow their local leagues. Previously, the app added coverage of France’s Coupe de France, demonstrating Apple’s commitment to broadening its football offerings.
NCAA Tournament Tracking Enhancements
For college football enthusiasts, Apple Sports now offers enhanced tracking for both the Men’s and Women’s NCAA tournaments. Users can follow the tournaments in real-time with interactive brackets that display matchups and results for each round. This feature provides a clear and concise overview of the tournament progress, allowing fans to easily stay up-to-date on their favorite teams’ journeys.
The addition of NCAA tournament brackets aligns with Apple’s strategy of providing comprehensive coverage across various sports, from professional leagues to collegiate competitions. This feature is particularly useful during the high-stakes tournament season, offering a streamlined way to follow the action.
A Dedicated Football Category
Recognizing the growing popularity of football within the app, Apple has introduced a dedicated “Football” category. This new section consolidates all football-related content, making it easier for users to identify and follow their favorite leagues, cups, and teams. The category streamlines navigation and enhances the overall user experience, particularly for fans who follow multiple football competitions.
The app’s functionality extends beyond scores and stats. Users can personalize their home view to prioritize specific teams, leagues, and tournaments. A widget can also be added to the iPhone’s Home Screen for quick access to scores and upcoming schedules. Live Activities on the Lock Screen provide at-a-glance updates, including scores and play-by-play information.
Apple Sports: A Growing Ecosystem
Apple Sports, launched in 2024, has quickly become a popular destination for sports fans. The app supports a wide range of sports, including Formula 1, NFL, NBA, NHL, MLB, tennis, and more. It’s designed to be fast and simple, providing a seamless experience for users seeking real-time sports information. The app is free to use and compatible with iPhone models running iOS 17.2 or later.
The app’s integration with Apple’s broader ecosystem, including Apple TV and Apple News, further enhances its value proposition. Users can watch live games on Apple TV or catch up on breaking stories through Apple News, all within a unified experience. The ability to sync sports information across devices ensures that fans stay informed wherever they are.
Apple’s continued investment in Apple Sports reflects the growing demand for comprehensive and accessible sports coverage. By adding new leagues, enhancing features, and streamlining the user experience, Apple is positioning its app as a key player in the sports information landscape. The app’s focus on real-time updates, personalized content, and seamless integration with Apple’s ecosystem makes it a compelling option for sports fans of all levels.
The latest update underscores Apple’s commitment to providing a robust and engaging sports experience. The addition of these leagues and features demonstrates a clear understanding of the evolving needs of sports fans and a dedication to delivering a best-in-class app.
Apple Sports version 3.8 is available for download now on the App Store: Apple Sports on the App Store.
What’s Next: The NCAA basketball tournaments are set to initiate in March, providing an immediate opportunity to test the new bracket tracking features. Fans can expect continued updates and enhancements to Apple Sports as Apple seeks to further refine the app and expand its coverage.
What are your thoughts on the latest Apple Sports update? Share your feedback and favorite features in the comments below!
