News broke today that telecoms provider Du has has contacted its UAE customers to inform them that beIN content will no longer be available on its TV packages from July 1.
A huge blow for sports fans in the region, the news had been rumoured for some time. While negotiations have been ongoing, it remains to be seen whether a deal can be salvaged.
A statement attributed only to a beIN spokesman said:
“Discussions with du regarding the renewal and inclusion of beIN’s channels in its packages have been ongoing for many months. Should beIN not be available on du packages from 1 July, when the current agreement ends, beIN will continue to provide its valued and loyal UAE subscribers with the world’s very best premium sports and entertainment content. UAE customers can still watch key sports events such as European football leagues, UEFA club and national team competitions, ATP/WTA tennis including Wimbledon, this summer’s The Ashes series between England and Australia, NBA and American sports, and much more through the beIN Satellite Network (visit bein.com and/or call: +974-400 90000) and TOD (visit tod.tv). du subscribers inquiring about possible cancelation and/or refunds, should contact du customer service on +971-43905555.”
Fellow telecoms operator etisalat by e& had beaten Du to the (sucker) punch, by stopping carrying beIN channels on its TV services from June 1. That means that Etisalat by e& subscribers have already missed out on FA Cup and Champins League final wins by Abu Dhabi-owned Premier League champions Manchester City.
Now that Du has been unable to review its contract with the Qatari broadcaster, it means that faithful subscribers currently missing out on the Ashes cricket series between England and Australia, also face missing a stellar season of sport ahead.