HBO Max has finally launched in the UK, and the streaming service is home to TNT Sports, making a huge impact for soccer fans and other sports viewers
HBO Max has finally arrived in the UK, with significant implications for TNT Sports viewers. The streaming platform went live on Thursday (March 26), six years after its debut in the US, making the UK one of the last European countries to receive the platform since its rollout began in 2021.
This means a huge change in the way soccer fans watch the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup and many other sports. Since replacing BT Sport in 2023, TNT Sports has been available to stream on smart TVs, smartphones, tablets and other devices via Discovery+, but this is no longer the case.
Many viewers require access to HBO Max to stream their favorite sporting events, and there are several ways to sign up through providers like Amazon and Sky. However, despite the rebuild, not everything has been completely overhauled. Some existing users will be happy to know that they can use their current login information and their subscription fees will remain the same.
Here’s what you need to know about HBO Max.
How to get HBO Max in the UK
You can purchase an HBO Max subscription at several retailers across the UK, but the easiest option is HBO Max itself. You can sign up at hbomax.com, the HBO Max app, or through Prime Video, which hosts dedicated channels for both HBO Max and TNT Sports.
Sky is offering a free HBO Max subscription bundled with its £22 Ultimate TV package, which also includes Netflix, Disney+, Hayu and discovery+ at no extra cost. These five subscriptions alone are worth around £240 a year, and the package also includes a further 135 TV channels, including Sky Atlantic and Sky One.
However, there are some important caveats to keep in mind. Most notably, Sky is increasing the price of its Ultimate TV bundle to £24 for those who sign up from March 31st. So act quickly to lock in your current rates. Sky also says prices are “subject to change” throughout the 24-month contract.
Please note that TNT Sports is not included in your Sky contract and must be purchased separately. New customers can join the standalone TNT Sports plan for a flat rate of £30.99 per month.
Sky’s Ultimate TV Bundle
Sky is offering Ultimate TV bundle customers a free subscription to Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, Hayu and discovery+.
What if I’m already subscribed to TNT Sports?
TNT Sports customers who held an existing subscription before moving to HBO Max can use their current login details in the HBO Max app. Those who have already paid for a Discovery+ account will find their subscription activated on HBO Max instead.
Similarly, those who previously streamed TNT Sports via Prime Video channels can also use their existing account details.
What kind of content is on HBO Max?
Following the integration of TNT Sports into HBO Max, the broadcaster’s coverage of the Champions League, Premier League and FA Cup has been migrated to the new platform and is now accessible with various TNT Sports subscriptions. The same goes for TNT’s rugby, MotoGP, UFC, golf, cricket, snooker, tennis and cycling coverage.
Beyond sports, HBO Max is also home to major series like Harry Potter and Game of Thrones, as well as popular series like Friends, Succession, and The Sopranos. It has also been a prime destination for DC titles, Emmy Award-winning drama The Pit, and Oscar-winning films such as Sinners and One Battle After Another.
(Image: Getty Images)
How much does HBO Max cost?
HBO Max pricing varies depending on the subscription tier you choose. There are several subscription tiers. There are also a number of options for accessing TNT Sports, including standalone plans and bundles of TNT Sports and HBO Max.
If subscribers are willing to commit to a 12-month contract, they can reduce costs by choosing a ‘saver plan’.
HBO Max subscription tier
Basic with ads: £4.99 per month Standard with ads: £5.99 per month Standard: £9.99 per month Premium: £14.99 per month Standard with ads and TNT Sport: £36.98 per month Standard and TNT Sport: £40.98 per month Premium and TNT Sport: £45.98 per month
Saver Plan (minimum 12 months)
Ad-supported Standard and TNT Sport: £27.99 per month Standard and TNT Sport: £30.99 per month Premium and TNT Sport: £34.99 per month TNT Sport: £25.99 per month
