MIPCOM 2010 – CANNES. Comcast International Media Group (CIMG) has partnered with AB Group to launch Golf Channel in France, marking the first deal for the channel in mainland Europe. The announcement was made by Duccio Donati, EVP, CIMG.
“Golf continues to be one of the world’s top sports, attracting passionate viewers and participants across the globe,” said Donati. We’re delighted to expand Golf Channel’s presence with this first launch in Europe and invite viewers in France to experience the sport’s most prestigious events and original signature programming.”
AB Group will operate the new 24/7 HD channel, that will offer up coverage and highlights of live tournaments, including the European Senior Tour, Asian Tour, Allianz Tour, PGA Grand Slam, US Open, Ryder Cup and British Open, as well as original series including Golf Central, Live From, The Big Break, The Haney Project, Golf Fix, Playing Lessons from The Pros and Golf Now. The move is part of a new channel offer from AB Group.
“AB Group is proud to be launching the Golf Channel in France with the cooperation of Golf Channel international and Comcast International Media Group,” said Jean-Michel Fava, President, AB SAT. “French golfers have been waiting for this moment to happen for a long time and we believe that the high quality programming from our partners alongside AB’s experience will ensure the success of Golf Channel in France.”
In France, Golf Channel is available on the IPTV services Free, SFR, Orange and Bouygues, and later in October will launch on the DTH platforms from Bis Television and Orange.
Golf Channel began distributing to an international audience in 1996, with the launch of a 24-hour network in Japan. Over the last decade, as the popularity of golf has rapidly grown worldwide, the channel has built an international presence and now can be seen in 120 million homes worldwide.
