Public Service Media (PSM), the state broadcaster for the Maldives has signed an agreement with Media Net to broadcast World Cup 2022 which begins in November.
Media Net has acquired the broadcasting rights for the Maldives for a sum of USD 1 Million. Media Net has sold the rights to both Ice TV, a channel run by the company, and Rajje TV.
The matches will be broadcasted via three channels including PSM’s Yes TV. Media Net has sold the rights for an amount of USD 333,333 which is equivalent to MVR 5.1 Million.
Deputy Managing Director of PSM Mohamed Shameem stated that he believes the amount PSM has to pay can be covered through their sponsors.
"The money doesn't have to be paid immediately. It can be collected from the sponsors before the deadline," Shameem said.
If it cannot be collected through the sponsors the amount will have to be settled by the state budget.
Most viewers watch PSM through the Media Net network included in the monthly subscription fee. There are talks that Media Net will charge an additional fee for the World Cup.
Many people in Maldives watch PSM through Media Net's network. PSM is available through Media Net as part of a monthly subscription package. There are rumors that Media Net may charge an additional fee to view the World Cup.
PSM has been airing World Cup coverage ever since Mexico hosted the event in 1986. However, there were no fees charged because the channels were viewed through Terrestrial Broadcast.
A panel of football coaches and journalists will be on the pre-program that Ice TV and Raajje TV have organised.
PSM's team of analysts includes veteran journalist and commentator Imad Lateef and veteran commentator Mohamed Shahid.
The first World Cup to be hosted in a Middle Eastern country will kick start from November 20 till December 18, 2022. The opening match will be between Qatar and Ecuador at 9 p.m. local time. The majority of games will be played from 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. local time.