On January 1st, 2025, German broadcaster Sportdigital successfully launched its new pay-TV channels, Sportdigital1+ and eSportsONE. These channels, previously operated by Sport1 under the names Sport1+ and eSports1, transitioned to Sportdigital in Hamburg following a November 2024 spin-off agreement. “The transition went very smoothly and we would like to thank our distribution platform partners for their trust in us,” said Sportdigital managing director Gisbert Wundram to Broadband TV News.
Wundram confirmed the renewal of cable, IPTV, and streaming distribution contracts with major platform operators, ensuring significant audience reach. This includes the trendSports package on Astra (19.2° East), making Sportdigital1+ and eSportsONE accessible to DTH satellite households via Sky Deutschland and HD+. Beyond these platforms, the channels are also available on the Sportdigital+ app, compatible with smart TVs and mobile devices, alongside other sports channels.
A key advantage is the maintained monthly subscription price of €4.99, with a reduced price of €3.75 per month for a 12-month subscription. The transition included the transfer of over 60 leagues and competitions’ broadcast rights previously held by Sport1+ and eSports1, according to Bendix Eisermann, Sportdigital’s fellow managing director. New rights additions include those from the Spanish Basketball Clubs Association (acb) and the UK’s Super League Rugby, along with exclusive live broadcast rights for all NASCAR races.
Sportdigital plans to further expand distribution in the coming months, with ongoing negotiations with additional platform operators. Wundram also confirmed plans for continued portfolio expansion through further rights acquisitions, indicating continued growth and development for the channels.