Canal+ Secures Broadcast Rights for Saudi Pro League for France and Africa
Canal+, a premium French television channel, has acquired the broadcast rights for the Saudi Pro League, also known as Roshn Saudi League, targeting its audience in France and Africa for the next two seasons.
The 2023/2024 season is set to begin on Friday, August 11, with 18 teams clashing in home and away games until May 2024.
The renowned French broadcaster will showcase two matches every week for its French and African audiences. Football enthusiasts can tune into Canal+ sports channels, myCanal, and also stay updated via Canal+’s social media handles.
The Saudi Pro League is the latest addition to Canal+’s rich football catalogue, including the UEFA Champions League and Premier League.
Thomas Sénécal, Canal+ Group’s sports director, shared, “We’re thrilled to present this dynamic soccer league to our CANAL+ audience. With top-tier players gracing the Saudi Pro League, our viewers, including the Canal Football Club, are in for a treat on our channels.
As this league gains momentum, we’re excited to follow football giants like Ronaldo, Benzema, Kanté, and Mané.”
Saudi Pro League Garners Global Interest
The league’s stature has grown with the US$200m contract that brought Cristiano Ronaldo to Saudi Arabia’s football scene.
Also, in an interview, Ronaldo remarked, “I believe this league has the potential to rank among the world’s top five. While time, player development, and infrastructure are essential, the incredible potential of this country, coupled with its wonderful people, convinces me that the league will achieve greatness.”
The league’s global appeal has surged, drawing in international broadcasters, including DAZN, a live sports streaming service with exclusive UK rights, Canal Goat on YouTube for Brazilian fans, and Italy’s free-to-air LA7 channel, as informed by insiders.
Earlier, London-based IMG Media, a renowned sports and talent management firm, collaborated to secure broadcast deals for the Saudi Pro League. As a result, the league has been showcased on multiple networks and streaming services, extending its reach to more than 130 regions worldwide.
Additionally, it’s worth mentioning that Canal+ has secured a 12% stake in Viaplay, a leading OTT platform in the Nordic area.
Could this acquisition position Canal+ to expand streaming rights in those territories in the coming times?
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