StarTimes secures CSL media rights in Sub-Saharan Africa

StarTimes, China Sports Media (CSM) and IMG signed a three-way agreement yesterday (June 23) in Beijing, to bring the Chinese Super League (CSL) to an African audience.

Under this agreement, Beijing-based StarTimes has acquired all-media rights to the Chinese top-tier soccer league in Sub-Saharan Africa. This deal runs from 2016 through 2017.

According to an earlier ChinaDaily report, “Startimes will own the broadcasting rights for cable TV, satellite TV, IPTV, VOD, internet and mobile platforms, whether in English, French, Portuguese, or native African languages. Meanwhile, it will use its own sports channel to rebroadcast more than two CSL football games in English in every round”.

As stated in an official file, this move will deepen the existing friendship between China and Africa, and the Mandarin commentary included in the package will also give a visual soccer feast to overseas Chinese.

The CSL media rights are currently held by CSM, better known as Ti’ao Dongli. As CSM General Manager Zhao Jun said, it’s a big day for the league, because it attracts more and more overseas fans.

Following this deal, viewers in 52 countries and regions around the world will be able to watch the games on different platforms. “We are planning to expand into more than 100 countries and regions next season.” Zhao added.

Source: Netease

Proofread by Sean O Diobhilin