French media company Canal+ has secured the exclusive rights to broadcast UEFA’s men’s club competitions across Sub-Saharan Africa, in a landmark agreement that reinforces the continent’s growing importance in the global sports media market.
Beginning in mid-2027, Canal+ will exclusively air the UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League and UEFA Conference League across more than 40 countries in Sub-Saharan Africa.
The deal, which runs until 2031, covers all languages and gives millions of football fans access to Europe’s most prestigious club tournaments through Canal+’s television and digital platforms.
The agreement is expected to strengthen Canal+’s position as one of Africa’s leading pay-TV broadcasters, where demand for premium football content continues to rise. The company already serves millions of subscribers across the region and has steadily expanded its investments in sports, entertainment and local content.
For football supporters, the new rights mean continued access to matches involving some of the world’s biggest clubs, including Real Madrid, Barcelona, Manchester City, Liverpool, Bayern Munich, Paris Saint-Germain, Arsenal and Inter Milan, as they compete for European glory each season.
The acquisition also reflects Africa’s increasing commercial value in the global sports broadcasting industry. With a youthful population, growing internet penetration and a passionate football audience, Sub-Saharan Africa has become a key market for international media companies seeking to expand their reach.
Industry experts say competition for premium sports broadcasting rights has intensified in recent years as broadcasters invest heavily in exclusive content to attract and retain subscribers. Live football remains one of the strongest drivers of subscription television and streaming services worldwide.
Beyond entertainment, the agreement is expected to create opportunities across Africa’s media ecosystem, including sports journalism, television production, digital broadcasting, advertising and sports marketing. Analysts believe continued investment in sports media could contribute to job creation and support the growth of Africa’s creative economy.
Canal+’s latest acquisition highlights the confidence global media companies have in Africa’s rapidly expanding sports market and underscores the continent’s growing influence in the future of international sports broadcasting.
TNAM
By Egwu Patience Nnennaya
