JOHANNESBURG, South Africa (23 September 2025) – Disney+ has announced that, from 2 October 2025, South African customers will gain access to ESPN Africa linear channels at no extra cost. Subscribers will now have access to two 24-hour linear ESPN channels delivering live and studio sports programming from the US and around the globe, covering major leagues and iconic competitions.

On ESPN, fans can expect premier sporting action, including Australia’s National Rugby League (Aussie Rules), Japan’s Rugby League, and leading European football competitions such as the Scottish Professional Football League, English Football League, Dutch Eredivisie, German Football Association Cup, Turkey’s SüperLig, and Saudi Pro League.

ESPN 2 focuses on American sports, showcasing the NBA (National Basketball Association), NFL (National Football League), MLB (Major League Baseball), and NHL (National Hockey League), as well as women’s and collegiate competitions, including NWSL (National Women’s Soccer League), NCAA football, and basketball.

Both channels feature studio shows such as ESPN FC, First Take, The Pat McAfee Show, and SportsCenter, along with award-winning documentaries and original programming, including the renowned 30 for 30 film library.

Diego Londono, Senior Vice President & General Manager, Networks & Sports, The Walt Disney Company EMEA, stated, “At Disney, we are committed to delivering world-class sports and entertainment to customers across the region. The launch of the ESPN Africa linear channels on Disney+ in South Africa reflects our strategy to reach sports fans across multiple platforms and connect with new audiences.”

Kyle de Klerk, Director of Sports at The Walt Disney Company Africa, added, “ESPN’s unparalleled content offering will provide Disney+ customers with access to the greatest historic and live sports programming from some of the most iconic leagues and events in the world. Fans can enjoy thrilling action immediately, with the European football season and NFL already underway and upcoming highlights in NBA, NHL, and NCAA leagues for 2025.”

Disney+ offers a comprehensive entertainment catalogue, including FX’s The Bear, The Kardashians, Only Murders in the Building, The Simpsons, Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, National Geographic, and content from Hulu, FX, Searchlight Pictures, and 20th Century Studios.

All Disney+ Premium and Mobile plan subscribers with an 18+ content rating in South Africa will have access to the ESPN linear channels. ESPN is also available via MultiChoice’s DStv and StarTimes across Africa.

Your support makes stories like this possible!

Underground Press relies entirely on your generosity, enabling us to report on the entertainment industry, free of charge and independently. Your contribution ensures millions worldwide can continue to visit our site for amazing content from around the web.
*Currency in South African Rands (ZAR)