The channel aims to provide compelling local and international sporting content to South African fans.
Public broadcaster South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) has officially launched its 24-hour sports channel via free-to-air broadcasts and online streaming.
The channel had its soft launch in April 2021 and is now available on SABC digital TV broadcasting, Openview channel 124, and TelkomONE streaming service.
Speaking about the new channel, Gary Rathbone, SABC Sport General Manager, said: “SABC Sport has always been the ultimate sporting home to the nation and has brought to South Africa unforgettable sporting events over the years. We are excited that as SABC Sport we will be part of the historic moment of unveiling the athletes who will be proudly representing the nation at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. For the public broadcaster, we are aware of the role we also play in touching the hearts and minds of the public. Through the events we showcase on the SABC platforms, we want to inspire up-and-coming athletes in the various sporting disciplines to reach for their dreams.”
He added: “Our newly launched Sports Channel on the DTT, OpenView, and TelkomOne platforms, must also be commended. Since the Channel became operational in April this year, its audience figures have been positive, with the latest TAMS figure showing a total reach of over 2 million, a 5 % share of the National Television Market. On OpenView alone, the channel has established itself amongst the top 10 on the bouquet, with a total reach of over 1.4m, representing a 24% share of the OpenView market. This is really positive start for an exciting new Sport Channel that South Africans will be able to access without needing to pay a subscription”.
The SABC Sport Channel aims to provide compelling local and international sporting content to South African sports community.
Upcoming events will include the Bafana Bafana friendlies, the Premier Soccer League, the Tokyo Olympics, the Confederation Cup, the Carling Black Label Cup, Formula E, the French Top 14, boxing as well as local cricket, athletics and tennis.