The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) announced today that it has secured the exclusive rights in South Africa to become the Official Broadcaster of the 2006 Fifa World Cup, and all Fifa Additional Events up to the end of 2006.

These rights comprise of exclusive terrestrial television rights in SA, radio rights for the territory of SA, and exclusive satellite rights in sub-Saharan Africa in the English language.

The Fifa Additional Events leading up to 2006 includes the Fifa U-19 Women’s World Championship, as well as the Fifa Confederations Cup.

This acquisition comes in the wake of the SABC securing the broadcast rights to major events such as the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens, the Rugby World Cup, the 2003 and 2007 All-Africa Games and the Cricket World Cup. With this latest addition, the Big Five has been bagged, for all South Africans to see.

‘The SABC has responded to the public desire that an event of the magnitude of the 2006 FIFA World Cup should be broadcast by the national broadcaster. It is a mandate we continuously pursue with passion and vigour. We cannot fail ordinary South Africans’, said Mr Peter Matlare, Group Chief Executive Officer. – Sapa

For more information contact:
Tel: (011) 714-5150
Fax: (011) 714-5180

Private Bag X1
Auckland Park
2006
South Africa