Canal+ takes control of MultiChoice in landmark deal, promises growth and local commitment
By K24 Digital Reporter, September 23, 2025In a historic move for the global media industry, French broadcaster Groupe Canal+ has officially taken control of South Africa’s MultiChoice Group, following the finalisation of its mandatory offer to shareholders.
The acquisition, confirmed on Monday, September 22, 2025, represents the largest transaction in Canal+’s history and cements the combined group’s place as a media powerhouse serving over 40 million subscribers across nearly 70 countries.
Under the deal, Canal+ acquired MultiChoice shares at ZAR125 per share, securing effective control with 46% ownership and additional acceptances of 2.2%. With the offer now unconditional, Canal+ is poised to expand its stake further, integrating MultiChoice into a global platform that spans Africa, Europe, and Asia.
“Today marks an important step forward for CANAL+, as we begin to integrate MultiChoice to create a group with enhanced scale, reach and creativity,” Maxime Saada, CEO of Canal+, who now also chairs the MultiChoice board, said.
“Our combined company is unique, a true global media and entertainment powerhouse. This combination increases our ability to invest in creative and sporting content throughout Europe, Africa, and Asia.”
The merged entity will employ around 17,000 staff worldwide and will leverage its scale to boost investment in both local and international productions. Canal+ confirmed that South African subscribers will not see any immediate changes to their billing or subscriptions but promised broader content offerings in the future.
Canal+ and MultiChoice have pledged to uphold public interest obligations as part of the deal. These include support for firms owned by Historically Disadvantaged Persons (HDPs) and small and medium enterprises in the audiovisual sector, alongside continued funding for local general entertainment and sports content.
Calvo Mawela, outgoing MultiChoice CEO and now Chair of Canal+ Africa, underscored the company’s commitment to its roots.
“Over the past three decades we’ve built something special – grounded in innovation, resilience and a shared commitment to bring great content to our audiences. Going forward, this commitment remains unchanged.”
Takeover
The takeover has brought significant boardroom changes. The new MultiChoice board, announced on 22 September, includes Saada as Chair, David Mignot as CEO, and Nicolas Dandoy as CFO, alongside a majority of independent directors to maintain oversight. Mawela, though stepping down as CEO, will chair Canal+’s African operations, ensuring continuity.
David Mignot, now CEO of Canal+ Africa, emphasised the growth ambitions: “Together, we will harness digital innovation, from streaming and mobile platforms to advanced distribution, to expand access, enhance experiences, and bring compelling programming to more homes, while giving Africa a stronger voice on the world stage.”
The integration process has already begun, with Canal+ planning to unveil detailed strategic synergies in early 2026. Meanwhile, MultiChoice will shift its financial year-end from March to December to align with Canal+.
For shareholders, key offer dates run through 10 October 2025, when the final closing is set. Payments to shareholders who tendered shares will follow in phases, concluding by 17 October 2025.
As Canal+ deepens its presence in Africa, the deal signals a bold new era for the continent’s media industry. For viewers, it promises more diverse content and stronger African representation on the global stage.