Discovery Expands Sports Portfolio

SINGAPORE: Discovery Networks Asia-Pacific has bought Setanta Sports Asia, a premium rugby channel that reaches more than 40 million homes across 16 countries.

The network features a range of rugby properties, including SANZAR, Super Rugby, European Rugby Champions Cup, National Rugby League and Guinness Pro 12. It joins Eurosport in the Discovery sports portfolio.

“The acquisition of Setanta Sports Asia is an important investment for Discovery as we further build scale and expand our business in Asia," said JB Perrette, the president of Discovery Networks International. "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. We are also very pleased to have Peter Hutton, who joined us a few months ago as CEO of Eurosport, leading the strategy of our newest global brand. Peter has excelled in the sports media business and his extensive international experience in multiple markets, including Asia, will boost our momentum.”