Disney+ To Add ESPN Linear Channels from 2 October 2025

Disney+ has announced that, from 2 October 2025, the ESPN Africa linear channels will be available to South African customers at no extra cost.

Fans will gain access to two 24-hour ESPN channels showcasing the best live and studio sports programming from the US and around the world, spanning major leagues and iconic competitions.

A World of Sport on ESPN

On ESPN, Disney+ customers can look forward to:

• National Rugby League in Australia (Aussie Rules) and Japan’s Rugby League.
• Top European football, including the Scottish Professional Football League, English Football League, Dutch Eredivisie, German Football Association Cup, Turkey’s SüperLig, and the Saudi Pro League.

Big American Sports on ESPN 2

ESPN 2 brings South African sports fans the biggest American leagues, including:

• NBA (National Basketball Association)
• NFL (National Football League)
• MLB (Major League Baseball)
• NHL (National Hockey League)

It also covers women’s and college sports such as the NWSL (National Women’s Soccer League), NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association), and ESPN College Football.

Studio Shows, Documentaries, and Originals

Both channels broadcast studio shows delivering the latest news and analysis across American sport and football, including ESPN FC, First Take, The Pat McAfee Show, and SportsCenter.

Audiences will also enjoy ESPN’s critically acclaimed documentaries and original programming, including its award-winning 30 for 30 film library.

Commitment to Sports Fans

Diego Londono, Senior Vice President & General Manager, Networks & Sports, The Walt Disney Company EMEA, said “At Disney, we are committed to delivering world-class sports and entertainment to customers across the region.

The launch of these linear channels on Disney+ in South Africa reflects our strategy to reach sports fans across multiple platforms and connect with new audiences, bringing iconic sporting moments together with the expansive and much-loved entertainment already available.”

Kyle de Klerk, Director: Sports for The Walt Disney Company Africa, added “ESPN’s unparalleled content offering will provide Disney+ customers with access to the greatest historic and live sports programming from some of the most iconic leagues and events in the world.”

“Fans will be able to enjoy thrilling action right away as the European Football season and the NFL have just launched, with existing milestones to look forward to in 2025 including the start of the NBA, NHL, as well as NCAA football and basketball leagues.”

Expanding the Disney+ Experience

Disney+ already offers something for everyone – from blockbuster movies and hit series to much-loved Originals. Subscribers can enjoy FX’s The Bear, The Kardashians, Only Murders in the Building, The Simpsons, and much more.

The ESPN Africa linear channels will join a vast content catalogue spanning Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, National Geographic, and general entertainment, also featuring content from Hulu, FX, Searchlight Pictures, and 20th Century Studios.

All Disney+ Premium and Mobile plan customers with an 18+ content rating in South Africa will have access to the linear channels. In addition to Disney+ in South Africa, ESPN remains available on MultiChoice’s DStv and StarTimes across Africa.

Watch this space for updates in the Streaming category on Running Wolf’s Rant.