If you’re a Chicago sports fan and a CHSN on Comcast 2025 subscriber, there’s some good news — and some not-so-good news. The Chicago Sports Network (CHSN), which has been missing from most Comcast lineups since its launch last fall, is finally available starting this week.
But here’s the catch: it’s only accessible if you upgrade your plan.
A Long Wait Ends — With a Price Tag
For months, local fans have been stuck in the dark, unable to watch their favorite Bulls, Blackhawks, and White Sox games because of a carriage dispute between CHSN and Comcast.
That wait ends now — but at a cost.
Starting Friday, CHSN will appear on Channel 200 for Comcast customers who are subscribed to the Ultimate tier , which runs an extra $20 per month on top of regular fees.
This deal marks a major milestone for CHSN, which launched in October without Comcast — the area’s largest pay-TV provider — on board. Until now, viewers had to rely on streaming services like FuboTV or over-the-air broadcasts to catch games.
Why Is It More Expensive?
Comcast has been pushing regional sports networks like CHSN and Marquee Sports Network onto higher-priced plans across the country. In Chicago, that means fans who want to see the Bulls, Hawks, or Sox will need to shell out more each month.
The Ultimate tier already includes premium channels and expanded cloud storage for Xfinity users, but for many sports fans, the added fee feels like a direct hit to their wallets.
Still, for die-hard supporters, it might be worth it — especially with over 300 live games scheduled each year.
What About Fans on Basic Plans?
If you’re on the basic cable plan, you won’t be able to access CHSN without upgrading. On Channel 200, a message clearly states that the network requires a subscription change.
Comcast has been giving a monthly $8.85 credit to help offset the Regional Sports Fee (RSF) during negotiations, but that credit will remain permanent for basic-tier subscribers — reducing their RSF to $11.40/month.
Marquee Sports Network, home of the Cubs, remains on the basic plan — at least for now — giving some fans a reason to hold off on upgrading.
Over-the-Air Broadcasts Gone
As part of the new agreement, CHSN is ending its free over-the-air broadcasts in Chicago and surrounding areas. That includes cities like Rockford, Peoria, Fort Wayne, and South Bend.
This was reportedly a sticking point in negotiations — Comcast didn’t want to pay for content that others could get for free.
Now, CHSN is focusing on paid distribution through providers like Comcast, DirecTV, and streaming platforms such as FuboTV and its own app.
The Road to This Deal
This wasn’t an easy road. The channel launched with high hopes and big promises, but without a deal with Comcast, it missed most of the NBA and NHL seasons and a large chunk of the White Sox’s MLB slate.
Jerry Reinsdorf, chairman of the White Sox and Bulls, even made a trip to Washington, D.C., earlier this year to meet with FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, hoping for regulatory support. But in the end, the deal seems to reflect Comcast’s terms — moving CHSN to a premium tier.
What Comes Next?
While the deal brings CHSN to over a million households, the real test will be how many subscribers actually upgrade to watch.
With the White Sox struggling on the field and both the Bulls and Blackhawks missing the playoffs this season, the timing isn’t ideal. But for loyal fans, having access to every game — plus behind-the-scenes coverage and local sports programming — may be worth the price.
Time will tell whether this deal strengthens CHSN’s position in the market or turns off budget-conscious fans.
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