Chinese media giant, StarTimes, is set to resume its role as the official broadcaster of the Ghana Premier League (GPL) after reaching an advanced agreement with the Ghana Football Association (GFA).
This follows a period of halted broadcasts due to unresolved financial issues.
StarTimes, which had previously suspended its coverage, currently owes the GFA $995,000. The company attributed this debt to the sharp fluctuations in the U.S. dollar in Ghana, which affected their financial commitments.
Despite the challenges, StarTimes has assured the GFA of their intention to clear the outstanding arrears and requested a six-month period to settle the debt in full.
As part of the new negotiations, StarTimes has made a major move by increasing their contract offer. While they previously operated under a $5.25 million deal signed in 2020, the new agreement ensures that the amount remains unaffected by future exchange rate fluctuations. This commitment provides financial stability for the GFA and secures the long-term viability of the partnership.
Sources close to the negotiations report that the GFA has accepted the revised terms, setting the stage for StarTimes to soon resume the broadcast of Premier League matches across the country. This development comes as a relief for football fans in Ghana, who can once again look forward to live coverage of their favorite teams and matches.
The return of StarTimes is expected to significantly enhance the visibility and commercial value of the Ghana Premier League. Known for covering key football competitions in Ghana, including the GPL, FA Cup, and Women’s FA Cup, StarTimes will bring innovative broadcasting technology and a fresh perspective to the Ghanaian football landscape.
In their absence, the broadcasting rights have been temporarily distributed to several free-to-air TV stations, but StarTimes' return is anticipated to transform how football is consumed in Ghana, potentially reaching larger audiences and driving increased sponsorship opportunities.
