Hongkongers will be able to watch the Paris Olympics and Paralympics this summer on free-to-air TV channels in the SAR, after the government announced on Tuesday that it has purchased the broadcasting rights for the sporting extravaganza.

The administration had also made a similar move for the Tokyo Olympics three years ago.

Chief Executive John Lee said buying the rights again is in response to society's high expectations for the Games, after the screening of the tournament in Japan brought the city to life, with people cheering with enthusiasm for the Hong Kong athletes.

Lee said that not only can the live broadcasts bring joy and unity, they can also provide business opportunities for, among others, TV stations, shopping malls and restaurants.

The CE said the fee paid for the rights cannot be revealed because of the organisers' confidentiality rules, but he described the amount as reasonable and well worth it.

"I can tell you [the amount] is lower than the broadcasting rights for the Tokyo Olympics as well as similar purchases in the past made by business organisations, so it's reasonable and it's value for money," Lee told reporters ahead of the weekly Executive Council meeting.

"Broadcasting the Games creates tremendous social value, as it will enhance the love for sports, it'll bring people together, and it'll also bring pride [in the athletes' achievements]."

Lee said he is confident that people will watch the major events, despite the time difference between Paris and Hong Kong, just like they do when the Fifa World Cup is held in far away places.

Sports minister Kevin Yeung, meanwhile, said the move shows the government values sports development, adding that officials will talk with TV stations and the sports sector to iron out the details.

"This decision from the government responds to the aspiration from the community. This also shows the attention the government pays to sports," he told a Legco panel meeting.

Yeung added that the channels will be asked to broadcast a set number of hours of Olympic events, including games featuring Hong Kong athletes. They will also need to air more events involving the national team.

TVB, Hoy TV, ViuTV, and RTHK welcomed the move, saying it will allow Hongkongers to immerse themselves in the Olympic atmosphere.
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Last updated: 2024-04-09 HKT 21:28