BERLIN: FIFA has reportedly secured a deal with German broadcasters to televise the 2023 Women’s World Cup, avoiding the threat of a controversial blackout in the country.
German media reported on Wednesday the tournament will be broadcast on public networks ZDF and ARD.
According to information seen by AFP subsidiary SID, an agreement between FIFA, the networks and the European Broadcasting Union will soon be announced.
FIFA boss Gianni Infantino had been critical of broadcasters in the ‘Big Five’ European countries, believed to be Germany, France, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom, for offering substantially less than the amount paid to show the men’s World Cup.
ARD director Axel Balkausky had previously said his network offered a fair bid for the rights and told Germany’s FAZ newspaper broadcasters “would not allow themselves to be blackmailed.”
In May, Germany captain Alexandra Popp accused administrators of “empty words” in the ongoing dispute, saying a World Cup blackout would be “so bad for women’s football.”
Germany are among the favorites at the World Cup, which will take place in Australia and New Zealand from July 20 to August 20.
FIFA strikes Women’s World Cup TV deal in Germany — reports
https://arab.news/z4jb3
FIFA strikes Women’s World Cup TV deal in Germany — reports
- German media reported on Wednesday the tournament will be broadcast on public networks ZDF and ARD
- ARD director Axel Balkausky had previously said his network offered a fair bid for the rights
Karim Benzema joins Al-Hilal
RIYADH: Karim Benzema has joined Al-Hilal after leaving Al-Ittihad, the Riyadh club announced early Tuesday.
The former French international was introduced with a post on social media, “Karim Benzema is officially Hilali.”
The 2022 Ballon d’Or winner, who scored eight goals in 14 league matches this season, joined on a free transfer, his new club added.
Though this chapter comes to an end “respect and gratitude will always remain,” the Frenchman said.
“Thank you to the club, the staff, my teammates, and especially the fans for the welcome, the love, and the energy you gave me every day,” Benzema wrote on social media.
“This journey gave me a lot, both personally and professionally. I leave with my head held high, proud to have worn these colors and of everything we shared.”
Benzema moved to Saudi Arabia in 2023 after 14 seasons with Real Madrid. Last season he scored 21 goals as Al-Ittihad won the league.
This season Al-Ittihad trail leaders Al-Hilal by 12 points.
— with input from Reuters
