Sunday, July 19, 2009

Broadcasting row. This time in Egypt.

A few days ago I spoke of broadcasting issues that were brewing in Ghana.

A new TV broadcasting row has erupted in Egypt with the country’s football association threatening a black-out of the Egyptian Super Cup fixture between League champions Al Ahly and Cup winners Haras Hedood on July 21.


British company IMG have bid EGP140 million (US$25-million) to become host broadcasters of domestic league and cup matches in Egypt, while the traditional broadcasters, the Egyptian Radio and Television Union (ERTU), are only willing to pay EGP90 million (US$16-million).

Regulations do not dictate how broadcast rights should be handed out in Egypt, but it is clear the FA would rather keep it local. Given the impasse, the FA are threatening not to allow any broadcast of the Super Cup, the traditional opener to the League season.

"We stand firm on our decision. The match will not be aired," Egyptian FA president Samir Zaher said.