For 14 days, starting from 28 May, DStv Premium, Compact Plus and Compact subscribers will have access to a pop-up channel airing a new football show, History of Football.
The show, launched by MultiChoice and A+E Networks International, will run 24/7 till 10 June on DStv channel 187. Outside of Africa, History of Football will air in over 160 territories, with every major territory having access to over 40 hours of content, which will be a blend of global and local programming.
David Villa, a World Cup winner with Spain and one of the most decorated players in the world, is the global spokesperson.
“As a passionate football player, I’ve been lucky enough to see first-hand how much football means to so many people and how it affects people’s lives. History of Football, told so comprehensively by such a well-loved and highly respected global brand as HISTORY, is a remarkable initiative. I am thrilled and honoured to work with HISTORY on this fantastic television event, because it gives my fellow players, coaches, and myself, an opportunity to talk about what the game means to us and to re-live so many incredible memories,” said the former Spanish international.
As part of the 14-day programming event, HISTORY will air globally-focused premium documentary series, short form specials and a selection of FIFA World Cup films. HISTORY channels around the world will also broadcast locally-sourced television series and documentaries that will offer a unique lens into each country’s passion for football.
Said Yolisa Phahle, CEO for General Entertainment for MultiChoice, said: “The story of football is great family entertainment and we’re delighted to be part of HISTORY’s global event. This pop-up channel is exclusive to DStv customers in Africa and is the perfect build-up to the full-on action that will unfold during the football World Cup tournament that we’ll be broadcasting in June, on several dedicated SuperSport channels.”
Highlights of the talent line-up for History of Football include Pelé, the only player to win three FIFA World Cups; Ryan Giggs, the most decorated player in British history and current manager of the Wales national team; Gary Lineker, England’s record holder for goals scored in finals; Louis Van Gaal, former manager of Manchester United, Bayern Munich, Ajax Amsterdam and Holland; Philipp Lahm, captain of Germany at the 2014 FIFA World Cup; Claudio Ranieri, former Leicester City manager and Michael Owen, former Liverpool, Manchester United and England striker.
