Kodwa 'hopeful' of Rugby World Cup deal between SABC, SuperSport
Minister of Sports Zizi Kodwa said on Monday he hopes the SABC and SuperSport will be able to reach an agreement on the broadcast of the Rugby World Cup games involving the Springbok.
MultiChoice, which owns the broadcasting rights for the tournament in France, wants the SABC to pay about R38m to sub-licence the rights.
Kodwa urged the SABC to find a solution in order for it to be able to fulfil its mandate to cover sports of national interest.
"I am concerned at how millions of South Africans may be unable to watch the Rugby World Cup should the SABC not be able to broadcast matches in the tournament. My commitment is to give South Africans access to all sports codes," said Kodwa.
“I am hopeful that an agreement will be reached between SABC and Supersport. Rugby plays a critical role in nation-building and social cohesion. It is important that millions of South Africans can watch the Springboks continuing to lift the nation at the Rugby World Cup," he said.
The tournament gets underway on Friday night when hosts France face off against New Zealand’s All Blacks at Stade de France.
The reigning champions will open their campaign on Sunday against Scotland.
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