In a major shakeup for sports broadcasting in South Africa, Athletics South Africa events will no longer be aired on SuperSport.
All running events, including major marathons, will now be broadcast on SABC, marking a significant change for fans and the broadcasting landscape.
One of the most immediate implications of this shift is the coverage of the iconic Comrades Marathon.
Last year, SuperSport provided extensive coverage with 45 cameras along the route, 25 hours of live broadcast, and three dedicated channels, including feeds for the main race, elite women, and finishers. With the move to SABC, such extensive coverage is unlikely to be replicated.
Nqobile Ndlovu from Cash N Sport, a leading sports business authority, explained that while fans may not have access to the same level of detailed broadcasting, many will still be happy to see Athletics South Africa events return to free-to-air television.
The changes come as part of broader adjustments within SuperSport following cost-cutting and strategic decisions by its new parent company, France’s CANAL+.
Concerns have also been raised by stakeholders, including trade union Solidarity and SA Rugby executives, about the potential impact on Afrikaans commentary and other sports coverage under the new management.
For viewers, the move to SABC ensures that major athletics events remain accessible to a wider audience, even if the production scale differs from previous SuperSport broadcasts.
The Comrades Marathon in June will be the first major test of how the new coverage arrangements will play out for fans across the country.
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