Millions of free-to-air Betway Premiership fans will miss this weekend’s matches after negotiations over television rights failed to conclude in time.
The public broadcaster announced the news in an official media statement on Friday, 31 July 2026. The opening fixtures are scheduled to kick off on Saturday, 1 August 2026.
SABC WAITING FOR RIGHTS AGREEMENT
The blackout follows unresolved sub-licensing negotiations with CANAL+, which holds the broadcasting rights alongside MultiChoice.
SABC said discussions with the rights holders are continuing. However, the parties were unable to reach a commercial agreement before the start of the new season.
The broadcaster remains hopeful that an agreement will be finalised soon. If negotiations are successful, SABC plans to resume live Betway Premiership broadcasts from 15 August 2026.
Despite the setback, SABC has secured the rights to broadcast the 2026 MTN8 tournament on free-to-air television. SABC Group Chief Executive Officer Nomsa Chabeli confirmed the agreement with CANAL+.
Meanwhile, CANAL+ Africa and MultiChoice Group CEO David Mignot welcomed the MTN8 partnership. He also expressed confidence that a wider agreement for the Betway Premiership would be reached.
FANS MISS BETWAY PREMIERSHIP OPENING WEEKEND
The announcement has frustrated many supporters who rely on SABC 1 to watch local football.
The opening weekend includes several high-profile fixtures. Defending champions Orlando Pirates begin their Betway Premiership title defence against Milford FC at the Orlando Amstel Arena.
Elsewhere, Kaizer Chiefs travel to Mbombela Stadium to face newly promoted Kruger United. Until a broadcasting agreement is finalised, supporters without subscription television services will be unable to watch the opening Betway Premiership matches on free-to-air television.
