South African Breweries, Hollywoodbets, and Pineapple Insurance collectively contributed $3 million (R58 million) to support the SABC in acquiring sub-licensing rights for the Rugby World Cup broadcasting. According to insiders cited by the Sunday Times, a significant portion of this financial support came from SAB, primarily through its Castle Lager beer brand.

In return for their funding, these three companies will receive advertising exposure during the two-month-long tournament. Prior to this financial intervention, South Africans without a DStv Premium subscription, which costs R799 per month (even more for satellite-based viewers), would have been unable to enjoy Rugby World Cup matches from the comfort of their homes.

Hollywoodbets is the majority shareholder in Cape Racing and are looking to acquire Gold Circle (Kzn Racing) in the coming weeks.

Image SA Rugby