ESPN will buy cable channel NASN as it tries to broadcast more American sporting events in Europe. The channel, based in London and also known as the North American Sports Network, is currently the
only European net dedicated to North American sports.
ESPN is majority-owned by Disney's ABC, and the deal will allow the parent to expand ESPN in Europe, now limited to its ESPN
Classic channel, a soccer Web site and a business that sells some sports shows to other European networks.
"Growing our business in Europe is a key strategic initiative for us," says
Russell Wolff, managing director of ESPN International. "We expect NASN, which has performed well and created a unique market position, to be a strong addition to our portfolio."
NASN
has more than 6 million subscribers in 26 European countries. ESPN will also get its exclusive rights to NHL and Major League Baseball games in Europe, along with rights to the NFL in some parts of
the Continent.
advertisement
advertisement
Read the whole story at Associated Press via Newsday »