The decision by cable giant DSTV not to broadcast the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations sparked widespread uproar across the continent, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa.
With only nine days until the tournament's kickoff in Ivory Coast, many West African football fans found themselves in a state of uncertainty after the announcement.
However, a glimmer of hope emerged as StarTimes, another cable operator, successfully secured exclusive broadcasting rights for the highly anticipated Africa Cup of Nations and all CAF events scheduled for 2024.
StarTimes to the rescue
Notably, StarTimes also secured the rights to broadcast the Nigeria Premier Football League this season, adding to their acquisition of the Ghana Premier League rights.
StarTimes disclosed that all 53 matches of the Africa Cup of Nations will be exclusively aired on StarTimes’ Sports Premium, Sports Life, and Beta Sports channels.
“We are thrilled to announce that StarTimes has secured the broadcasting rights for AFCON 2023. This marks a significant milestone for us as we strive to provide top-tier sports entertainment to our viewers,” stated Joshua Wang, StarTimes CEO, in a press release.
“AFCON is a celebration of African talent and passion, and we take pride in our role in bringing this experience to homes across the continent.” he stated.
More from StarTimes
StarTimes' expanding influence in Africa underscores their commitment to enriching the football viewing experience.
This broadcasting rights acquisition follows StarTimes’ successful coverage of the 2019-2022 AFCON and the 2020 CHAN. They also offer the German Bundesliga, Saudi Pro League, the Brazilian top flight and FIBA basketball among others.
The Africa Cup of Nations will kick off on January 13 in Ivory Coast, featuring 24 teams for the first time in the tournament’s history. Senegal are the defending champions.
