South Africans can watch 33 live English Premier League matches on SABC during the 2023/2024 season, the public broadcaster announced in a media statement on Wednesday (19 July).
This follows SABC’s partnership with Gemini Sports Media through the right holders Infront Sports France.
SABC to air English Premier League matches
The English Premier League (EPL) 2023/2024 season will start on 12 August 2023. SABC will air 33 live matches on its SABC Sport linear TV and digital platforms, including sabcsport.com SABC+.
SABC Sport anchors will present a live studio buildup for each game, including match previews as well as team and player news, on both TV and digital platforms. Viewers can also access latest news, log table, streaming services and live match commentary on the digital platforms.
“The acquisition of The English Premier League is testament to the SABC’s commitment to continuously fulfil its public service mandate by providing access of sports of national interest to South African citizens,” the state broadcaster said.
The limited number of games means that South Africans may still have to rely on other options to watch the rest of the 380 games that constitute a full EPL season.
“The acquisition of the league has always been a strategic direction of the SABC. The English Premier League creates various marketing opportunities for the SABC Sport and other SABC brands,” SABC’s Head of Sport Keletso Totlhanyo said.
Gemini Sport Media spokesperson Carrie Davis added, “We are thrilled to embark on this journey with the SABC. The EPL presents a tremendous opportunity for brands to connect with a broad audience of sports fans. Our mission is to make the EPL accessible to all South Africans, ensuring that the excitement and passion of this league reach every corner of the country.”