KUALA LUMPUR: Astro Malaysia Holdings Bhd
, which has broadcast the FIFA World Cup for the past two decades, said its bid for the tournament’s broadcasting rights was unsuccessful due to rising content acquisition costs, piracy and weaker commercial viability.
“While we are disappointed that our ‘fair and competitive’ bid for the FIFA World Cup was not accepted, we are nevertheless pleased that the FIFA World Cup will remain accessible to Malaysian fans.
“As we pass the baton to the next broadcasters, we wish them every success in bringing the excitement of the event to Malaysians,” Astro said in a statement on its website.
The pay-TV operator said the landscape for premium sports content has changed significantly in recent years, with inflation and escalating international sports broadcasting rights driving up costs.
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