ESPN to Acquire NASN

LONDON, December 5: ESPN is looking to expand its European
presence with the acquisition of the North American Sports Network (NASN), which
delivers coverage of American sporting events across Europe, from Setanta Sport Holdings and Benchmark Capital
Europe.

NASN reaches more than
6 million subscribers in 26 European markets. In addition to enabling ESPN to
expand its reach in the region, the acquisition will also give the sports
broadcasting giant NASN’s NHL and Major League rights in Europe. Financial
terms of the deal, expected to close early in 2007, were not disclosed.

“Growing our business in Europe is a key strategic
initiative for us," said Russell Wolff, the managing director of ESPN
International. “We expect NASN, which has performed well and created a unique
market position, to be a strong addition to our portfolio. ESPN has a
leadership position in sports media around the world, and we look forward to
bringing the same passion, quality, excitement, and insightful journalism to
sports fans in Europe."

“This acquisition will allow us to accelerate our European television business which has grown rapidly since
the launch of ESPN Classic in 2002,” added Lynne Frank, the managing director
of ESPN for Europe, the Middle East and Africa. “NASN is a great fit for our
company and we will continue to build on its success and appeal across some of
the most vibrant multichannel markets in the world.”

Amory B. Schwartz launched NASN in 2002 with financing from
Setanta and Vulcan European Media. Vulcan sold out to Setanta in 2005. Setanta
then sold a 50-percent interest in the channel to Benchmark Capital Europe.

ESPN is expected to rebrand the channel upon the completion
of the deal.