SAFA and SABC Set to Hold Talks on TV Rights Deal
In a pivotal moment for South African football, the South African Football Association (SAFA) is in discussions with the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) regarding the renewal of their broadcasting rights contract, which is set to expire in October.
The future of this partnership holds significant importance, as it encompasses various crucial football events and competitions.
Renewal Talks on the Horizon
The SAFA and SABC have experienced a tumultuous relationship marked by disagreements over financial agreements.
However, they are now poised to enter into negotiations to determine the fate of their partnership. These discussions are anticipated to unfold in the coming days.
Expansive Coverage
Under the prospective agreement, the SABC aims to provide comprehensive coverage of a wide range of football events.
This coverage includes Bafana Bafana’s home matches, the ABC Motsepe League National Play-offs, Banyana Banyana matches, and the Hollywood Bets Super League.
Additionally, the deal would encompass the SASOL League Women’s National Play-offs Final and the SAB National Championship final.
Challenges in Broadcasting Finance
Despite SAFA’s previous claims that SABC’s offers have been less than satisfactory in recent times, the broadcasting corporation has faced its own set of challenges.
Particularly, the SABC has encountered difficulties securing advertisements to sustain the financial aspects of covering these events.
This financial strain has persisted for some time and distinguishes the SABC from broadcasters like SuperSport TV, which has managed to secure sponsors, such as Samsung and McDonald’s, for their DStv Premiership matches.
CEO’s Commitment to Resolution
Lydia Monyepao, the CEO of SAFA, has made resolving the TV rights issue a top priority since taking office earlier this year.
She acknowledged the urgency of the matter, considering the forthcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in the CAF zone in November, followed by the AFCON finals in Ivory Coast in January and February.
Monyepao emphasized that securing TV rights is critical to ensuring that the masses can access and watch Bafana Bafana matches.
She expressed optimism about reaching an agreement with the SABC before the current deal expires at the end of October, a stark contrast to the previous contract, which was only called after its expiration.