Government has put forward proposed regulations to make the broadcasting of sports in the ‘public interest’ free to watch, including key rugby competitions.
The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (Icasa) is said to engaging with the SABC, MultiChoice, eTV, Safa, PSL, Cricket SA, Boxing SA, Athletics South Africa, SA Rugby, Netball SA and Sascoc over the list of ‘public interest’ sports.
The push is for all South Africans to have access to key sports by broadcasting them free-to-air on SABC.
In response to Icasa’s review of the country’s sports broadcasting regulations, MultiChoice stated it is engaged extensively in the review process, but would prefer if the regulations were not changed.
‘MultiChoice is awaiting Icasa’s decision on proposed amendments to the Sports Broadcasting Regulations, as are all stakeholders that engaged extensively in this process,’ a statement read.
‘It remains our view that the current regulations strike a balanced approach and should not be amended.’
Icasa’s proposed list of events that would fall under the ‘public interest’ has been expanded and includes many events which are exclusive to SuperSport and MultiChoice.
This includes rugby events such as the World Cup, Super Rugby and Currie Cup.
