Canal+ seals $3B deal, takes over DStv, GOtv in game-changing move

French media company Canal+ has officially bought MultiChoice Group, the South African company that owns popular TV services DStv and GOtv.

The deal is worth $3 billion (about 55 billion rand) and was approved on July 23, 2025, by South Africa’s Competition Tribunal.

Canal+ already owned 45.2% of MultiChoice and has been investing in it since 2020. Now, with this deal, it owns 100%.

The final step is approval from South Africa’s Independent Communications Authority, and the deal is expected to be completed by October 8, 2025.

Canal+ CEO Maxime Saada said the approval is a major step and will help Canal+ expand across Africa, especially in English-speaking countries.

MultiChoice, which became independent from Naspers in 2019, has been Africa’s top pay-TV company for decades, serving almost 50 million subscribers. It is known for its strong local content and live sports.

MultiChoice Chairman Elias Masilela said the deal is proof of the company’s success and shows that investors believe in Africa’s potential. He added that Canal+ supports MultiChoice’s long-term plan for growth across the continent.

To follow South African laws, which limit foreign ownership of broadcasting licenses to 20%, MultiChoice created a separate company called LicenceCo. This company will hold its broadcasting license within South Africa.

The deal was approved with conditions. Canal+ must continue to support local content and promote South African shows in new market.