Russian President Putin has approved the launch of a new free sports channel this autumn.
According to Kommersant, it will be underwritten by Gazprom Media and make its debut this autumn, both as an analogue service and the country’s first DTT multiplex.
President Putin referred to the channel as “one of the most powerful resources to promote a healthy lifestyle, giving a positive example to young people and the so-called family audience”.
The channel will be based on NTV-Plus’ Sport Plus.
Aside from being broadcast terrestrially, it will be available online, social media, mobile platforms and on sports radio, with content being produced by employees of Rossiya 2 and NTV-Plus.
Its emphasis will be on top sporting events featuring Russians.
Separately, Gazprom Media will also take on the financial responsibilities of a three-year deal between NTV-Plus and the Russian Premier League for coverage of the latter’s competition for the next three seasons.
A continuation of the current contract, it is worth around $110 million, though the league will be financially worse off, having lost Sogaz as a sponsor.
