Setanta Sports finalising Australia division sale
In a short statement, yesterday, Danu Investment Partners — which comprises Setanta’s main shareholders, Leonard Ryan, Michael O’Rourke and Mark O’Meara — said that beIN Media Group is close to completing the takeover of Setanta Sports Australia, for an undisclosed sum.
beIN is a global media conglomerate operating premium sports networks across the Middle East, northern Africa, France, North America.
The media group also operates in parts of the Far East and the Asia-Pacific region.
It is jointly owned and operated by Qatari Sports Investments, an affiliate of Al Jazeera Media Networks.
beIN Sports operates three channels in France, two in the US and an online streaming service to customers in Canada.
Commenting on the takeover, beIN’s deputy ceo, Yousef Al-Obaidli, said that the company is very happy to be introducing its brand to “yet another admirable market”.
“Australians are very passionate about sports and we are proud to fulfil this passion and provide them with a unique experience,” he added.
Leonard Ryan added: “We believe this is a win for our loyal customers in Australia, who will share in beIN Sports’ commitment to producing sports coverage of the highest quality.”
Setanta Australia currently has 2.5 million subscribers, via the FOXTEL network, as well as online users.
It broadcasts a range of international rugby and football matches — including the Six Nations Championship, the German Bundesliga and the Uefa Europa League.
It was recently reported that Setanta is looking to enter the mobile phone market, here, with it hoping to launch a Setanta Go app and online player service, via a tie-in with 3 Ireland.
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