Disney+ South Africa has significantly expanded its content offering by adding ESPN and ESPN2 to its streaming lineup, providing subscribers with access to international live sports and studio programming at no extra cost.
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The inclusion of the two channels gives local subscribers instant access to a variety of sports leagues from the US and around the world, alongside ESPN’s acclaimed documentaries and breaking sports news.
In a statement, Kyle de Klerk, sports director at The Walt Disney Company Africa, highlighted that the move brings “more value through ESPN’s award-winning documentaries, breaking sports news, and fixtures from the most popular and exciting sporting leagues.”
This change underscores a major shift in the entertainment landscape: live sports are rapidly becoming an essential part of the streaming ecosystem, which was once dominated purely by scripted TV and movies. While traditional satellite broadcasters like MultiChoice Group’s SuperSport still hold a dominant position in the African market, Disney+’s decision to integrate ESPN signals that streaming platforms are actively positioning themselves as full-service entertainment destinations.
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Globally, this trend is undeniable: Amazon Prime Video has secured major rights like the NFL’s Thursday Night Football, Apple TV+ streams MLB and MLS games, and even Netflix is experimenting with live sports broadcasts. Disney’s decision brings its South African product in line with these international moves, offering consumers a valuable new option as sports rights slowly migrate online.
The ESPN channels are available to all Disney+ subscribers in South Africa on both the Premium and Mobile plans, provided the account has the 18+ content setting enabled. Parents can use controls and Pins to restrict access to mature programming. It’s important to note that ESPN channels remain available on DStv in South Africa as well.
