Media Coverage of the 2016 Rio Olympic Games

Bringing together all nations and sports disciplines, the Olympic Games are a true highlight of the sporting world. Even beyond the sports, the Games are a great source of national pride, unity and achievement. For the Rio 2016 Olympic Games, Infront and TV Media Sport (TVMS) were proud to join forces and bring these great moments to life for an African audience.

Despite time differences and long hours, the teams of technicians, editors, journalists, as well as logistics and commercial managers successfully delivered every possible Olympic thrill to fans. The programming offered to broadcasters from 5 to 21 August included a live/delayed signal and highlights from all competitions as well as full coverage of the Opening and Closing Ceremonies of the Rio 2016 Olympic Games. As a result, millions of viewers were able to witness and celebrate first-hand the accomplishments of Usain Bolt, Michael Phelps, women’s football, rugby 7s, equestrian sports, and African highlights such as the 400m South African medal or the football semi-final Nigeria vs. Germany at the Maracanã.

Commercial Process

The Exclusive media rights agreement between the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and Infront, covered free-to-air television and radio rights, alongside non-exclusive internet and mobile rights in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Infront produced and distributed a ready-to-broadcast customised programme for the African audience with a focus on African athletes, most popular competitions and best performances. The distribution effort was supported operationally by TV Media Sport (TVMS).

• A dedicated channel was created with a focus on African-preferred sports as well as African athletes. A running order integrated unmissable events and African participation.
• The channel was similar to any other channel, with specific graphics, sponsorship elements, commercial breaks and adapted commentary in three languages.

ACHIEVEMENTS

• For the first time ever, more than 230 hours of broadcast coverage were made available across 46 Sub-Saharan African territories – raising awareness for the Olympic ideals and giving all fans in the region access to the excitement;
• With 6 to 15 hours of daily live content in three languages, Rio 2016 was a historical moment, especially for the TV partners who benefitted from the most extensive technical operation – an absolute first for the region.