In a move set to reshape the global media landscape, French media giant Canal+ has officially taken control of the MultiChoice Group (MCG).
This milestone comes after all conditions tied to its takeover offer were either fulfilled or waived, giving Canal+ effective command of Africa’s largest pay-TV broadcaster.
As of Friday, 19 September 2025, Canal+’s acquisition became unconditional, though the final compliance certificate from South Africa’s Takeover Regulation Panel is still awaited — expected imminently.
Canal+ Strengthens Its Stake
Before the announcement, Canal+ already held 46% of MCG shares, excluding treasury stock.
An additional 2.2% of shares were tendered, giving the French media group full control.
“All remaining shares tendered into the Canal+ offer will further increase Canal+’s shareholding in MCG,” the companies said in a joint statement.
Largest Transaction in Canal+ History
This merger marks the biggest deal Canal+ has ever undertaken. The combined entity now boasts over 40 million subscribers across nearly 70 countries, spanning Africa, Europe, and Asia. Around 17,000 employees will support the new global media powerhouse.
“Our combined company is unique — a true global media and entertainment powerhouse,” said Maxime Saada, Canal+ CEO and newly appointed Chair of the MultiChoice Board. “This combination increases our ability to invest in creative and sporting content throughout Europe, Africa, and Asia.”
Commitments to Local Content and Customers
In South Africa, the merged group has made specific public interest commitments, including:
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Continued investment in local entertainment and sports content
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Support for Historically Disadvantaged Persons (HDPs) and SMMEs in the audio-visual sector
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Assurance that current subscription and billing arrangements will remain uninterrupted for customers
New Leadership at MultiChoice
As part of the integration, MultiChoice has refreshed its board and executive team.
Effective 22 September 2025, the new leadership structure includes:
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Maxime Saada – Chair
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Elias Masilela – Lead Independent Director
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David Mignot – Chief Executive Officer
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Nicolas Dandoy – Chief Financial Officer
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Kgomotso Moroka, Louisa Stephens, Deborah Klein, James du Preez, Jacques du Puy – Board Members
Former MultiChoice CEO Calvo Mawela and other board members stepped down, though Mawela will continue in a senior role as Chair of Canal+ African operations.
David Mignot will lead Canal+ Africa as CEO, and Nicolas Dandoy takes on the CFO role.
Outgoing MCG CFO Timothy Jacobs will remain in a senior finance position within the broader group.
Future Plans and Strategic Review
Canal+ has confirmed it will conduct a strategic review of the combined operations.
The group plans to share its vision, projected synergies, and long-term strategy in the first quarter of 2026.
About MultiChoice and Canal+
Founded in 1994 as part of M-Net, MultiChoice has grown into Africa’s leading pay-TV provider, with popular services such as DStv and SuperSport.
Canal+, a French media conglomerate and subsidiary of Vivendi, has a strong international presence, particularly in Europe and Africa, and now adds MCG to its global portfolio.