Olympics coming to you live - and free

Hongkongers will get to watch the Paris Olympics for free as the government has purchased the broadcasting rights for the Games that start on July 26, says Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu.

Lee said the Games will be broadcast through three licensed television stations - TVB, ViuTV and HOY TV - as well as public broadcaster RTHK.

The decision to purchase the broadcasting rights was influenced by the recognition that the current market conditions could not support TV stations in investing a substantial amount of funding to acquire the rights, Lee said.

Also, the government took into account the "social value, joy, unity and pride that arose from the exceptional performance of Hong Kong athletes at the Tokyo Olympics held in 2021."

Lee said Hong Kong was "depressed by the pandemic during the Tokyo Olympics but the broadcast of the Games, wide media coverage and excellent performance of local athletes boosted the social atmosphere and set off an Olympic fever in the city." He also said the passion for sports - and the participation in such events - continues to grow among Hongkongers.

"We all remember scenes where people gathered at malls to watch the Games on the big screen and cheered for our athletes. Hongkongers' passion for sports is still growing," Lee added.

Although Lee did not disclose the exact cost of the purchase, he assured the public that the price was cheaper compared to previous broadcasting rights deals, making the investment an "excellent value for money."

Additionally, the broadcasts have the potential to generate economic value and advertising income.

Broadcasting the Games in malls could stimulate economic activities and benefit the catering and retail sectors, said Lee.

Addressing concerns about the time difference between Hong Kong and Paris, Lee reassured the public that various solutions will be implemented to ensure accessibility to major events.

Drawing comparison with other notable sports events, Lee said: "People still manage to find a way to watch major games - including the World Cup - even with time differences."

He said the purchase was a "special arrangement" and will not become a regular practice.

Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Kevin Yeung Yun-hung said Hong Kong athletes have obtained qualifications in 15 events of five sports - cycling, sailing, swimming, table tennis and windsurfing - as of March 26. The qualification periods for the Paris Games will end in June.

The government's purchase of broadcasting rights shows it attaches great importance to local sports development and authorities will cooperate with the sports and business sectors to promote the "Olympic atmosphere" in Hong Kong, Yeung said.

The purchase received positive feedback from lawmakers and public figures.

Kenneth Fok Kai-kong, a lawmaker representing the sports, performing arts, culture, and publication sector, had been advocating for the government's acquisition of the rights since last July. Fok considered the broadcast of the Games a crucial element in the industrialization of sports.

Vincent Cheng Wing-shun, a representative of the Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong, echoed Fok's sentiments and suggested that local TV stations introduce more shows that promote local sports development.

Cheng also urged authorities to set up large screens at prominent locations such as the West Kowloon Cultural District and Victoria Park, in addition to the broadcasting by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department at its sports centers.

This arrangement would enable a large number of people to watch the competitions together and enhance the communal experience, he said.

The three TV stations involved in the broadcasts - TVB, ViuTV and HOY TV - expressed their support for the purchase and believed it would contribute to the promotion of local sports and cultural development.

Locals also welcomed the news, expressing their enthusiasm for increased participation in sports activities.

Li Ching, head coach of Hong Kong's table tennis team, affirmed that TV broadcasts could motivate athletes by providing them with the recognition and support of the general public.

Lobo Louie Hung-tak, associate head of the Education University's health and physical education department, believed the purchase will not only boost the economy but also promote patriotic education.

Sources also indicated that more positive developments might be in store for Hong Kong, as decisions regarding the city's application to host eight events of the National Games next year were expected to be made within the month.

These events include cycling, fencing, the rugby sevens, sailing, golf, handball, football and beach volleyball.

wallis.wang@singtaonewscorp.com

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