Starting on 02 October 2025, Disney+ will offer South African customers complimentary access to ESPN Africa’s linear channels. This will provide fans the opportunity to enjoy two dedicated ESPN channels broadcasting around-the-clock sports content from the US and globally, featuring prominent leagues and notable competitions.
The ESPN channel opens up a sports universe for Disney+ subscribers, covering events such as Australia’s National Rugby League, Japan’s Rugby League, and significant European football, including the Scottish Professional Football League, the English Football League, the Dutch Eredivisie, the German Football Association Cup, and Turkey’s SüperLig, as well as the Saudi Pro League.
ESPN 2 will feature premier American sports, including the NBA, NFL, MLB, and NHL, as well as women’s and collegiate sports like the NWSL, NCAA, and ESPN College Football.
The two ESPN channels will also air studio programs that provide updates and insights on American sports and football, showcasing shows like “ESPN FC”, “First Take”, “The Pat McAfee Show”, and “SportsCenter.” Additionally, acclaimed documentaries and original content, such as ESPN’s award-winning 30 for 30 series, will be accessible.
Says Diego Londono, Senior Vice President & General Manager, Networks & Sports, The Walt Disney Company EMEA:“At Disney, we are committed to delivering world-class sports and entertainment to customers across the region. The launch of the ESPN Africa linear channels on Disney+ in South Africa reflects our strategy to reach sports fans across multiple platforms and connect with new audiences, bringing iconic sporting moments together with the expansive and much-loved entertainment already available.”
Adds Kyle de Klerk, Director: Sports for The Walt Disney Company Africa:“ESPN’s unparalleled content offering will provide Disney+ customers with access to the greatest historic and live sports programming from some of the most iconic leagues and events in the world. Fans will be able to enjoy thrilling action right away as the European Football season and the NFL have just launched, with existing milestones to look forward to in 2025, including the start of the NBA, NHL as well as NCAA football and basketball leagues.”
Disney+ caters to a wide audience, offering a range of blockbuster films, popular series, and beloved Originals. Viewers can watch FX’s “The Bear”, “The Kardashians”, “Only Murders in the Building”, “The Simpsons”, and much more. The addition of the ESPN Africa linear channels will enhance a rich content library that includes offerings from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, National Geographic, and general entertainment, also featuring content from Hulu, FX, Searchlight Pictures, and 20th Century Studios.
Customers on Disney+ Premium and Mobile plans with an 18+ content rating in South Africa will be eligible for the linear channels. Besides Disney+ in South Africa, ESPN is also available on MultiChoice’s DStv and StarTimes across Africa.
Web: https://view.comms.disney.com/e/953913/2025-09-23/7rl5b/946780902/h/T_ZZQRnOcEA8tB44F_YYpECfrin9d0F_0BUTxf4bgpM
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