RANDBURG, SOUTH AFRICA – MultiChoice is exploring options to unbundle its popular SuperSport channels from other DStv packages as part of a review to meet changing viewer preferences.
The broadcaster confirmed it is considering changes to how its channel bouquets are structured, including possibly offering SuperSport and general entertainment channels separately.
Details on how this would work, pricing, or whether it would be optional remain undecided. MultiChoice described the process as early stage and said it is assessing the commercial and customer impact.
This is not the first time MultiChoice has looked into separating sports from other channels. Back in 2021, it tested a product called DStv Flex, which would have let subscribers pay for a basic entertainment pack with optional sport bolt-ons they could add or remove monthly. However, the project was quietly shelved by 2024.
DStv’s sports content, featuring rugby, cricket, football, golf, tennis, and motorsport, remains a major draw. Many viewers have long requested a more affordable sports-only option.
MultiChoice’s potential new owner, the French broadcaster Groupe Canal+, currently offers a standalone sports package called Canal+ Sport. If the acquisition goes through, this might influence future DStv offerings.
But some industry experts suggest Canal+ may keep sport bundled with other channels, as it is considered central to pay-TV packages.
The acquisition still awaits final approval from South Africa’s Competition Tribunal and communications regulator ICASA, with completion expected by October 2025.
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