Discovery Networks Asia-Pacific, a division of media and entertainment company Discovery Communications, has struck a deal to acquire pay-television broadcaster Setanta Sports Asia.
The value of the deal was not disclosed.
Setanta Sports Asia specialises in rugby union and rugby league coverage, and reaches more than 42 million homes across 16 countries.
According to reports, Setanta Sports Asia has agreed a five-year rights renewal for events operated by Sanzar, the body that represents rugby union in South Africa, New Zealand and Australia. The rights include international home matches plus the Super Rugby franchise tournament.
“The acquisition of Setanta Sports Asia is an important investment for Discovery as we further build scale and expand our business in Asia,” Discovery Networks International president JB Perrette said. “Just over a year ago, Discovery gained a controlling interest in Eurosport – a bold play that took our company into the exciting arena of sports. Similar to the strategy we have adopted for Eurosport, we will look to build on the strengths of Setanta and fortify its leadership as a must-have sports channel across Asia.”
Perrette added: “We will continue our steady investment in premium sports for Asia. The recent investments in the exclusive media rights for Champions League in Singapore on Eurosport, and now Setanta Sports Asia, demonstrate our commitment to building our portfolio and presence in the region.”