22/11/2004
NEWS STORY
We understand that a three-year deal has been done, whereby broadcaster SuperSport will broadcast F1 coverage across Africa from 2005.
Unfortunately for African F1 fans, SuperSport is pay per view.
It was recently announced that South African broadcaster SABC, will cover A1 Grand Prix when it gets underway next September. We understand that SABC didn't even submit a bid for the rights to broadcast F1 next year.
The press release from SuperSport reads as follows:
From next year, live coverage of all Grand Prix races, as well as practice and qualifying rounds, would be televised in Africa only on SuperSport's DStv channels, CEO Heinrich Enslin announced on Monday (November 22).
"We have concluded a three-year deal that makes SuperSport the sole provider of live television coverage of F1 racing on the continent, starting next year," Enslin said.
"For at least the next three years, therefore, only SuperSport will have the rights - and the responsibility - to broadcast each and every Formula 1 Grand Prix race, as well as practice and qualifying sessions, live to viewers in nearly 50 African countries and adjacent islands."
SuperSport had been broadcasting live F1 coverage for the past three years, sharing those rights with another broadcaster. Developments during the past few months had, however, changed the situation, Enslin said.
"The popularity of F1 racing in many African countries is on the increase, and with China and Mexico bringing exciting new Grand Prix events to the calendar, we expect the trend to continue."
SuperSport's live Grand Prix coverage has been broadcast uninterrupted by advertising breaks. This arrangement would continue, Enslin confirmed. "The nature of the sport is such that the fans do not want to miss a moment of any race. "
In addition to the live coverage, SuperSport will continue broadcasting repeats and edited highlights, as well as F1-related magazine programmes. "Internationally acclaimed commentators and local experts will combine to make the SuperSport package on par with the best in the world," Enslin said.