DStv sports‑only subscription: What’s changing and why it matters

MultiChoice, the owner of DStv and SuperSport, is actively exploring the introduction of a sports-only subscription package. This development comes as DStv has lost over 3 million subscribers in two years, largely due to economic challenges and viewers seeking more affordable, flexible viewing options.

Sports enthusiasts, often subscribing only to access live matches, would benefit most. A standalone sports package could offer SuperSport channels independently, without paying for the full R949 /month Premium bundle — a move likely to attract fans who want only sports content.

Subscriber Decline Fuels Urgency for Sports Package Launch

Over the past financial year, MultiChoice has lost approximately 1.2 million subscribers in South Africa and an additional 2.8 million across Africa, translating to a R1.7 billion revenue decline. These losses have forced a strategic rethink: instead of a one-size-fits-all model, consumers could soon choose subscriptions tailored to their interests—sports, entertainment, or both.

Why Sports Fans Are Supporting a SuperSport‑Only Package

Public reception to the proposed sports subscription is overwhelmingly positive. In South Africa, many fans voiced that sports is the only reason they stay on DStv. One Reddit user commented:

“The only reason they still have DSTV is for the rugby… if rugby was on more platforms I’d drop DSTV.”

Others echoed this sentiment, complaining about the high cost and suggesting a R200/month sports-only plan would be compelling.

How the Sports‑Only Package Could Be Structured

While specifics have not been finalized, MultiChoice is reportedly considering models akin to Sky’s in the UK: a base entertainment package with optional sports bolt-ons. The bundle might allow fans to pick specific sports—rugby, football, cricket—or opt for a full SuperSport lineup.

CEO Calvo Mawela said the company hopes to finalize a decision by March 2026, based on financial models and consumer preferences .

Streaming Disruption and the Rise of Showmax

MultiChoice’s pivot also aligns with its streaming evolution. Its platform, Showmax, now offers Entertainment-only and Premier League mobile plans, indicating a shift toward modular, à-la-carte offerings. A future DStv sports-only subscription could integrate into this strategy, especially with streaming giants like Netflix and Amazon Prime becoming strong competition.

READ ALSO

MultiChoice price cuts: What it means for Nigerian subscribers and the future of pay TV

Explainer: Why MultiChoice keeps increasing DStv and GOtv prices in Nigeria

DStv and GOtv price hikes over the years: How MultiChoice subscription costs have skyrocketed in Nigeria

MultiChoice in crisis: Price cuts, subscriber exodus, and the battle for relevance

MultiChoice, MTN Group… top 10 African businesses owned by South Africans

10 things MultiChoice can do amid rising subscriber loss

MultiChoice history: From Pay‑TV pioneer to facing digital disruption

MultiChoice cuts DStv decoder price by 50% to attract subscribers

MultiChoice 50% price cuts: Has Satellite TV era come to an end?

John Ugbe, other top MultiChoice executives set to be arraigned, see reason

From over N15k to N12k — how MultiChoice reversed DStv, Gotv prices after backlash

Full list: Multichoice increases DStv, GOtv subscription prices… see new rates

“Why I haven’t renew my DStv subscription since May 2024 — Lagos resident speaks

What This Could Mean for Consumers

• More affordable options: Fans pay only for what they watch, not for unused channels.

• Competitive pressure: Better pricing and improved streaming quality.

• Choice and flexibility: Add sports channels for major events, cancel during off-season.

• Better quality: Opportunity for DStv to deliver enhanced HD/4K sports streaming.

Timeline & What to Watch Next