CCTV and ESPN nab broadcast rights in China

Media rights deals in China have been finalized by UEFA for its Champions League and Europa League. The new three-year partnerships will begin in 2009, bringing football action to Chinese supporters via two major providers.

Top rights have been issued to China-based CCTV, to include a live match and highlights programme on each Champions League matchnight, delivered free-to-air. Through its channel CCTV 5, the UEFA Super Cup will be aired on television, with all Champions Laeague live matches being broadcast on the Internet and through mobile devices. CCTV 5 reaches more than 350 million homes in China.

Exclusive pay television rights were granted to ESPN STAR Sports for both events, to be broadcast in English. ESPN STAR Sports will also air one live match during each matchnight of both competitions. The broadcasting company also secured exclusive rights to the UEFA Champions League in Malaysia and Brunei. The latter deal will include two live matches every matchnight, as well as highlights, delayed matches, and a weekly magazine programme. ESPN STAR Sports will feature Champions League live matches on its website and via mobile platforms.

In a recent statement, UEFA General Secretary David Taylor indicated that he is quite pleased with the newly-formed partnerships. Taylor further noted that UEFA already has a "longstanding relationship" in place with ESPN STAR Sports, and expects CCTV to bring a great deal of exposure to the competitions.