DStv sports channel coming to SABC+

The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) has struck a deal with DStv owner MultiChoice to bring SuperSport Schools to the public broadcaster’s free streaming service, SABC+.

A curated version of the channel will be available to stream through SABC+ from 8 February 2025.

Neither party has revealed what the commercial arrangement is surrounding the SuperSport Schools streaming channel.

SuperSport said the content will focus on some of the most popular and significant sports in South Africa, including football, netball, rugby, athletics, hockey, and basketball.

SuperSport Schools filmed more than 60,000 school matches across a variety of sport disciplines in 2024.

“This selection is designed to cater to the diverse interests of South African sports fans and to promote a wide array of young talent from schools and clubs across the country,” SuperSport said in its announcement of the partnership.

“The aim is to leverage the expertise and platforms of both entities, enhancing the viewer experience and further promoting community engagement.”

SuperSport Schools, which has a dedicated streaming website, has recorded more than one million registered users.

“We want to encourage participation in sports at a grassroots level and reignite interest in sports across all schools in the country,” said SuperSport CEO Rendani Ramovha.

“Both SuperSport and the SABC share a common vision of providing athletes with a platform to shine and inspiring future generations of sportsmen and women.”

SABC CEO Nombsa Chabeli said the public broadcaster is proud to be part of the “life-changing” partnership between it and SuperSport.

She said the partnership extends beyond just fulfilling the public broadcaster’s mandate by offering all South Africans access to a platform that nurtures young talent.

“This partnership allows the SuperSport Schools channel to be accessible on the SABC+ streaming platform, enabling rising stars to gain recognition in the early stages of their lives, which will lead to more opportunities in the future,” added Chabeli.

SuperSport Schools CEO Thandolwethu Bakumeni said the deal with SABC+ aligns with its goal to nurture young talents and make youth sports a key part of South African culture.

“After all, World Cups are won 10 years before they are played,” he added.