IMG has become the sole distributor for 85 of the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) territories between 2023 and 2025.
The agreement, announced on Monday (11 December), sees IMG win exclusivity to distribute the international media rights of events in 85+ CAF countries. The deal does not include territories in the Middle East and North Africa, sub-Saharan Africa and other selected areas.
The arrangement secures IMG the management of broadcast deals ahead of the next two editions of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The tournament will be held in the Ivory Coast early next year and then Morocco in 2025. IMG also holds the rights to the qualifiers for the next two editions of Africa’s most prestigious international competition.
Other events included in IMG’s deal are the Women’s AFCON in 2024, as well as the CAF Champions League.
IMG and CAF deal will “unlock greater value”
Robyn Cox, vice-president and managing director of IMG’s media business, is excited for the opportunities the partnership could provide.
“The TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations is the biggest event on the African Continent. It’s one of football’s most watched competitions,” Cox said in the announcement.
“We’re looking forward to expanding our partnership with CAF to help unlock greater value from its media rights, grow the competition’s global audiences and enhance fans’ viewing experience.”
IMG and CAF strengthen partnership
IMG recently penned a deal to become the global sponsorship agency of CAF until 2025.
As well as delivering fresh sponsorship opportunities for CAF, IMG is also providing marketing, data and consultancy services.
IMG holds rights with the Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF). The company also broadcasted the most recent editions of the Fifa men’s and women’s World Cup on its Sport 24 channel.
The IMG Arena division of IMG broadcasts data from a number of European top-flight divisions. Owned by Endeavor, IMG Arena also acquired Leap Gaming in April, expanding its betting presence.
Original article: https://igamingbusiness.com/sports-betting/img-wins-exclusive-rights-85-caf-territories-2025/
