Canal Plus, a France-based international broadcaster, has acquired exclusive broadcast rights to the 2024 Copa America matches. The tournament will be aired across sub-Saharan Africa on its range of channels.
The pay-TV broadcaster plans to air the competition on its Canal+ Sport 1 and Canal + Sport 2 linear channels and OTT streaming platform. With an impressive subscriber base of 8.1 million in Africa, Canal Plus also intends to run ancillary programming around the tournament with a special Copa America show broadcast every match night.
The upcoming edition of Copa America is set to begin on June 21 and run through July 15. This year's host is the United States, with six North American national teams participating including those from the US, Canada, Jamaica, and Mexico.
Expansion plans in sub-Saharan Africa
Canal Plus views sub-Saharan Africa as a growth region. In recent months it has initiated steps towards fully acquiring MultiChoice - SuperSport owner which is currently the main sports broadcaster in sub-Saharan Africa. This acquisition could potentially strengthen their foothold in this region.
In addition to securing broadcasting rights for Copa America, both members of Delta Air Lines alliance - Latam Airlines Group S.A., have collaborated with Canal Plus to bridge South and North American cities during this period.
Latam plans to offer exclusive promotions around the tournament in host cities while also raffling off game tickets for customers. Furthermore, they aim at utilizing airport lounges as engagement spaces for fans throughout the duration of Copa America.
Copa America finally growing commercially worldwide
Conmebol - governing body for football within South America has secured several partners for this prestigious event recently including TCL Corporation (an electronics multinational), Gran Centenario Tequila, Mercado Livre (an online marketplace), BYD Auto Co., Ltd. (a car manufacturer), Absolut Sport, Unilever and Betano.
Other notable sponsors for the competition include Mastercard, Michelob Ultra, Puma and Lowe's. These partnerships are expected to enhance the overall experience of Copa America for football fans across the globe.
Canal Plus' acquisition of exclusive broadcasting rights for Copa America in sub-Saharan Africa is a significant development in sports broadcasting. This move not only expands their reach but also provides an opportunity to engage with a wider audience base through various platforms and collaborations.
