In addition to showcasing the sport’s biggest international stars, the tournament will also provide South African players with the opportunity to compete locally through wildcard entries and qualification pathways.

Fans can follow the action live on ESPN as the tournament reaches its decisive stages:

• Monday 27 July: Opening rounds (from 17:00)
• Tuesday 28 & Wednesday 29 July: First Round, Men’s & Women’s (from 9:00 onwards)
• Thursday 30 July: Round of 16 (from 10:00 onwards)
• Friday 31 July: Quarter-finals (from 10:00 onwards)
• Saturday 1 August: Women’s Semi-final (13:00) and Men’s Semi-final (17:00)
• Sunday 2 August: Women’s Final (13:00) and Men’s Final (15:00)

With live coverage from Pretoria complemented by social media content and updates, the Premier Padel promises to treat fans to one of the world’s fastest-growing sports while placing South Africa firmly on the international padel calendar.

For updates regarding the Premier Padel and other sports, fans can connect to @ESPNAfrica on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram or visit espn.com.

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On Friday 24 and Saturday 25 July 2026, from 11:00 to 14:00 in the Food District, shoppers will have the opportunity to meet the finalist organisations in the mall, hear how they are making a difference through sport and cast their vote for the organisation they believe deserves to be named the Power of Sport winner. Visitors are also encouraged to explore ways to get involved by joining, volunteering or supporting these clubs as they continue their important work across Mitchells Plain.

The 13 finalist organisations are 9Miles Project, Home Fighters Netball Club, House of Power Karate Academy, Just Planting Seeds, Karate Satori, Khaye Gymnastics Club, Lentegeur Volleyball Club, Play Sport4Life, Red Rovers FC, Tafelzucht, Woodlands Archery Academy, Westridge Football Club and Westridge Yankees.

The atmosphere will be brought to life with lucky draw giveaways for shoppers who vote. City Afro Bucket Drumming will perform live on Saturday 18 and Saturday 25 July, adding vibrant entertainment to the celebrations.

Every vote helps shine a spotlight on organisations that are inspiring hope, developing young talent and strengthening the local community. Liberty Promenade encourages residents to come along, support their favourite finalist and experience the Power of Sport in action this Mandela Month.

For more information on the finalists and campaign, visit libertypromenade.co.za or follow Liberty Promenade on Facebook, Instagram @libertypromenademall_za and TikTok @libertypromenademall.

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Hosted at the legendary Stade de France in Paris, the final will determine the champion of one of the most intensely competitive domestic rugby tournaments in the world. Viewers can experience full live coverage as two of France’s most prominent clubs clash for the prestigious “Bouclier de Brennus” trophy, with every moment unfolding in real time.

A Fitting Finale To the French Rugby Season

Toulouse enters the final as one of the most successful and decorated clubs in rugby history. Renowned for their attacking style and rich tradition of producing international talent, they will be looking to add another chapter to their remarkable legacy.

Standing in their way are Montpellier, a side that has built a reputation for physicality, resilience and an ability to rise to the occasion in the competition’s biggest matches. After a strong campaign, they will be aiming to upset the favourites and finish their season on the highest possible note.

With a passionate crowd expected at Stade de France and a national title on the line, the final promises the intensity, atmosphere and high-quality rugby that have made the TOP 14 one of the sport’s premier club competitions.

A Showcase of Elite European Rugby

The championship decider caps off ESPN Africa’s first season broadcasting the TOP 14, bringing viewers closer to the rivalries, personalities and dramatic storylines that have unfolded throughout the season.

Fans can tune in to watch Toulouse take on Montpellier live on Saturday 27 June at 21:00 on ESPN and on Disney+ in South Africa.

For updates regarding the French TOP 14 rugby and other sports, fans can connect to @ESPNAfrica on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram or visit espn.com.

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Running from Friday 3 to Monday 13 July in the Food Court, the immersive play experience will transform this part of the mall into an interactive soccer-themed activity zone where children, teens and even competitive parents can put their skills to the test across seven exciting challenges. Open daily from 10 am to 8 pm, tickets will be available at the activation area for R50 per participant.

Visitors will stand a chance to win incredible prizes, including 1 of 5 official Bafana Bafana jerseys, 5 x R1 000 Studio 88 vouchers and spot prizes from EL&N, Honor, Lego, McDonalds, New Balance, Spur, Totalsports and Toy Kingdom. The first 100 participants through The Goal Zone will have the opportunity to customise a Krispy Kreme Original glazed doughnut.

Winter Holiday Fun with a Competitive Twist

Created as a high-energy school holiday attraction, The Goal Zone activities will include a mix of football skills, speed, coordination and playful rivalry, giving young fans the chance to celebrate the game, test their skills and soak up the excitement of the World Cup.

Whether visitors are showing off fancy footwork or simply trying something new, the experience is designed to entertain a wide range of ages, with selected challenges designed for the whole family to enjoy, while bringing a lively, sporty atmosphere to the winter break.

Visitors will be able to test their power in Speed Kick, take aim in Beat the Keeper, sharpen reaction times at the Reflex Wall, or put their accuracy to the test in Through the Hoops. Those looking for something a little different will be able to try their hand at Footgolf, challenge friends and family in Sit Down Soccer, or see how long they can keep the ball in the air during Keepie Uppies.

Created to mimic an indoor astroturf-style arena complete with playful sporting touches, The Goal Zone will bring all the excitement of a match-day atmosphere into a fun, family-friendly holiday experience.

A School Holiday Outing With Extra Energy

As cooler weather settles in, The Goal Zone will offer families an indoor activity that encourages children to stay active while adding something different to the school holiday calendar. Positioned in the heart of the mall, the football experience will also make it easy for families to pair the experience with lunch, shopping or a full day out.

Whether it is siblings competing for bragging rights, friends challenging one another to beat the leaderboard or parents quietly proving they still have a winning kick, The Goal Zone is all about getting involved, having fun and making winter holiday memories.

The Goal Zone will run from 3 – 13 July 2026 in the Mall of Africa Food Court. Tickets are available onsite for R50 per participant. For more information and regular updates on Mall of Africa, its stores and events, follow the mall on social media at Instagram: @_themallofafrica or visit the mall’s website: mallofafrica.co.za.

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Known as one of Johannesburg’s best destinations for major sporting moments, thanks to its lively atmosphere, open-air piazzas, team-spirited vibe and unbeatable mix of dining and entertainment, Melrose Arch will once again transform into a football fan’s dream for the opening ceremony and first match of the tournament. The shared atmosphere of excitement, camaraderie and celebration at the precinct’s fan parks is unlike any other, extending far beyond the game itself.

The Big Kick-off in Style

The precinct will screen the highly anticipated opening match across both the Melrose Arch Main Piazza and The Square, creating one of the biggest public viewing experiences in the city. With seating for approximately 500 people in the Main Piazza and a further 250 seats available at The Square, fans are encouraged to arrive early to secure a spot. Entry is free.

The viewing areas will open from 6 PM, allowing visitors plenty of time to soak up the pre-match excitement, grab a bite to eat and settle in before the action begins. The opening ceremony will be screened live from 7:30 PM, followed by the kick-off at 9 PM.

For those who enjoy a front-row seat with dinner, in addition to the fan park seating, guests may book tables directly with the surrounding restaurants, all of which have excellent visibility of the big screens. MIHA (with a beautiful balcony overlooking the action), Mezepoli, Pret A Manger, Primi, RocoMamas, Tashas and The Grillhouse all cater to different tastes on the Piazza. Ghazal, Istanbul Kebab, Mr George and Ocean Basket offer delicious options on the Square, where a mobile coffee bar from Seattle Coffee Company will offer warm beverages throughout the evening. A Totalsports stand will retail Bafana Bafana supporter gear on the Piazza on the night.

Minions’ Mischief Meets Match Night

Adding an extra dose of mischief to the evening, beloved Minions characters James and Henry will also be making appearances at Melrose Arch to cheer on the national team and stir up their signature playful chaos. Fans can look forward to meet-and-greet moments, fun photo opportunities and a few naughty surprises along the way, ahead of the release of the new movie Minions & Monsters, releasing in cinemas later in June.

Best Vibes and Camaraderie

As Johannesburg’s leading mixed-use precinct, Melrose Arch combines a vibrant atmosphere with convenience and peace of mind, including safe and easy parking via Parket.

Whether arriving in full supporter gear or casual wear, fans are encouraged to dress warmly for what promises to be a memorable night out with friends and family as the world’s biggest football tournament officially gets underway. Fans are advised that no camp chairs, outside snacks or vuvuzelas are permitted within the precinct.

For more information on Melrose Arch and its activations, visit melrosearch.co.za or follow @MelroseArch on social media.

The post Melrose Arch Kicks Off World Cup With Joburg Fan Park Experience appeared first on Stage and Screen.

The rights package also includes coverage of additional NBA Sunday Night regular season games each season, both Conference Finals each year, as well as exclusive rights to the NBA Finals.

All games will air live across ESPN (DStv 218, StarSat 248) and ESPN2 (DStv 219, StarSat 249), as well as on Disney+ in South Africa. In addition to the live broadcasts, repeat airings are scheduled during the day, giving fans maximum flexibility and multiple opportunities to catch the action.

The Road to NBA Glory Begins

The 2026 NBA Finals are scheduled to run from Wednesday, 3 June to Friday, 19 June, should the series go to a decisive Game 7. All games will tip off at 02:30 CAT, with ESPN bringing African audiences every dramatic moment as it happens, live, from the United States.

The NBA commands a massive, passionate global following, with millions of fans across Africa closely following the league’s biggest stars, rivalries and defining moments. From sold-out arenas and iconic franchises to viral highlights and superstar athletes, the NBA has become one of the most recognisable sporting brands in the world.

Last season saw the Oklahoma City Thunder crowned NBA champions after defeating the Indiana Pacers 4-3 in the Finals, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander named the Finals Most Valuable Player.

African stars continue to play a major role in the NBA’s global growth and popularity, with players including Cameroon’s Pascal Siakam and Joel Embiid, South Sudan’s rookie Khaman Maluach and global sensation Victor Wembanyama all helping to fuel the league’s growing fan base across the continent. Wembanyama, who has ties to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, has rapidly become one of the NBA’s most exciting young superstars, captivating fans worldwide with his remarkable skill, athleticism and larger-than-life presence on court.

A New Era of Basketball on ESPN Africa

The addition of the NBA Finals rights further expands ESPN Africa’s growing basketball portfolio alongside its broad range of premier international sporting content.

Kyle De Klerk, Director of Sports at The Walt Disney Company Africa, says the acquisition marks an exciting moment for basketball fans across the region. “The NBA is one of the biggest and most celebrated sports properties in the world, with an incredibly passionate fan base across Africa. We are thrilled to bring audiences exclusive access to the NBA Finals over the next three seasons, alongside the Conference Finals and Sunday Night games. From superstar players and unforgettable rivalries to dramatic playoff moments, this is world-class basketball entertainment at its very best.”

So, who will lift the Larry O’Brien Trophy in 2026? There is only one way to find out.

For updates on ESPN and its programming, fans can connect to @ESPNAfrica on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram or visit espn.com.

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Building on the success of previous community-focused Mandela Day initiatives, this year’s initiative recognises the individuals and programmes creating meaningful social impact through grassroots sport in their communities.

From local soccer fields and rugby clubs to netball courts, tennis programmes, chess groups, athletics initiatives, dance organisations and community fitness projects, the mall aims to shine a light on the people creating safer spaces, stronger support systems and positive opportunities for young people through sport.

Celebrating Community Champions

South Africans share a deep passion for the sport and love the way it unites communities and inspires resilience. Through The Power of Sport, Liberty Promenade is recognising the everyday sporting heroes whose commitment extends far beyond the game itself.

Shoppers are invited to nominate deserving sports organisations, coaches, teams, mentors and youth development initiatives that are making a positive difference in their areas until 29 May 2026.

Shortlisted nominees will form part of a special Mandela Day exhibition inside the centre later this year. The exhibition will feature striking portraits, team stories and community achievements, showcasing how sport continues to change lives and create safer, healthier futures for young people and families.

One selected sports organisation or initiative will receive support of up to R20 000 towards equipment, facilities, programme growth or development needs.

“Sport has an incredible ability to bring people together and create positive change in communities. Through this campaign, we want to recognise the organisations dedicating their time and energy to uplifting young people and creating opportunities through sport,” said Brenda Bibby, general manager at Promenade. “These are the local champions helping build confidence, leadership and connection every single day.”

How To Nominate a Sporting Hero

Community members can nominate a local sports organisation online, Mandela Day – PowerOfSport Application | Liberty Promenade or follow Liberty Promenade on Facebook, Instagram @ libertypromenademall_za and TikTok @ libertypromenademall.

Nominations close on 29 May 2026. A verification process will be conducted to confirm the authenticity of all submissions.

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From football in some of Europe’s biggest cup competitions and African basketball, the weekend of 22 to 24 May promises wall-to-wall action featuring elite clubs, title-deciding fixtures and some of the sport world’s most anticipated match-ups this year.

Europe’s Biggest Women’s Soccer Clubs Collide in Oslo

One of the standout fixtures of the weekend will see Barcelona take on Lyon in the UEFA Women’s Champions League Final on Saturday, 23 May at 18:00 (CAT) from the Ullevaal Stadion in Oslo, Norway. The final marks the first time the prestigious event will be hosted in Norway and forms part of ESPN Africa’s continued commitment to bringing world-class international sport to audiences across the continent. ESPN holds exclusive rights to the competition across sub-Saharan Africa.

The Race to the English Premier League

Football fans can also look forward to the EFL Championship Play-Off Final from Wembley Stadium in London on Saturday, 23 May, with kickoff at 16:30. Widely referred to as the “richest game in football”, the fixture determines which club will secure promotion to the English Premier League alongside the top two teams from the regular season.

Hull City and Middlesbrough are in the highly contested race for a coveted place in the Premiership, and will battle it out under the famous Wembley arch.

German Giants Battle for Cup Glory

The football action continues on Sunday, 24 May at 20:00 with the DFB-Pokal Final from Berlin’s Olympiastadion, where Bayern Munich will face reigning champions VfB Stuttgart in Germany’s premiere domestic cup competition. Stuttgart lifted the trophy in 2025 after defeating Arminia Bielefeld 4-2 in the final and will now attempt to defend their title against one of Europe’s most formidable football clubs.

Africa’s Best Basketball Giants Head to Kigali

Basketball fans are also in for a major treat as the Basketball Africa League Finals tip off in Kigali, Rwanda, from 22 to 31 May. Taking place at the BK Arena, the BAL Finals bring together the continent’s top men’s basketball clubs as they compete for African glory and a place at the 2026 FIBA Intercontinental Cup.

Kyle de Klerk, Director of Sports at The Walt Disney Company Africa, said the upcoming weekend reflects ESPN Africa’s commitment to delivering the most exciting sport to audiences across the continent. “This is an incredible weekend for sports fans, and we are delighted to be bringing all of this action to viewers across Africa. From massive football finals and promotion battles to the biggest club basketball competition on the continent, the quality and variety of sport on offer across ESPN and ESPN2 that weekend is exceptional. We can’t wait to see these teams in action and to share every big moment with fans watching from home.”

For updates for ESPN and its programming, fans can connect to @ESPNAfrica on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram or visit espn.com.

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Virgin Active Padel Club KZN Regional Manager, Jade Jacobs adds, ‘’At the Gateway Club, we’re passionate about creating an inclusive space for new, current and returning players to experience the magic of padel. It’s set to be a vibrant, fun-filled tournament, and we look forward to hosting everyone on court”.

The Grand Padel Open invites players of all levels, from juniors to seasoned competitors, to step onto the court. With multiple divisions and a cash prize pool of R14 000 up for grabs, the tournament offers a fun way for shoppers to get involved, whether competing or spectating. Entries are now open via Playtomic, making it easy for participants to secure their place and be part of the action.

Mikhail Pillay, Gateway Virgin Active Padel Club Manager, says, “We’re extremely excited for the upcoming Padel tournament at our venue, in partnership with the mall. The energy is building, the courts are ready, and we’re looking forward to a fantastic day filled with competitive spirit, great matches, and an amazing community atmosphere.”

A Packed Programme on and Off the Court

Players can expect an action-packed lineup throughout the day.

The tournament format is as follows:

• Main Tournament: 8 am – 2 pm
• Kids Americano: 2 pm – 4 pm
• Men and Ladies Americano: 4 pm – 6 pm
• Fast 10’s: 6 pm – 9 pm

Beyond the courts, the experience includes a beauty, wellness and fashion component. Edgars will introduce its menswear active range, S Active range by Stone Harbour, a new athleisure collection designed for both performance and everyday style. The range will be brought to life through an interactive exhibition space, with select players, including local padel enthusiast Matty Jones, taking to the court in the new collection. Shoppers will also be able to explore and shop the range on-site, alongside a curated edit of beauty and active lifestyle products.

“We’re excited to bring S Active to life in such an energetic environment. Shoppers can also discover a curated selection of beauty favourites, from globally loved fragrance brands to skincare and cosmetics that complement an active, modern lifestyle,” said Gigi Mott, Customer Experience Executive at Edgars.

Wellness, Style and Added Value Across the Centre

Adding further variety to the experience, Gateway will host a Mind, Body and Beauty experience across the centre. This mall-wide activation will feature popular brands across skincare, fragrance, fitness and fashion, with new launches and special offers.

Shoppers will also get to unlock added value through the Wellness Wallet, a booklet featuring exclusive offers from 20 participating sport, beauty, fashion and wellness stores. The booklet is free and can be collected at the gifting concierge desk (near Starbucks) or the mall’s information desk (near Circus Circus) over the weekend.

Gateway Marketing Manager, Ayesha Sewbaran, says the initiative reflects the centre’s evolving approach to retail.

“We’re evolving the Gateway experience to be more than just shopping. The Grand Padel Open is designed to create a space where energy, connection and lifestyle intersect, giving our shoppers new reasons to visit and engage with the centre. Of course, you need to look and feel good, and beauty plays a huge part in our offering, and those feel-good moments too.”

For more information about Gateway, its stores, experiences, and promotions, visit gatewayworld.co.za or follow the centre on Instagram.

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TOP 14 broadcasts, giving viewers a front-row seat to the passion, rivalry and weekly drama that define the French game, will air across both ESPN (DStv 218, StarSat 248) and ESPN2 (DStv 219, StarSat 249), as well as on both linear channels on Disney+ in South Africa.

The action kicks off this Saturday, 18 April, with no less than three match-ups, including Stade Rochelais vs Union Bordeaux Bègles (14:30 on ESPN 2), Aviron Bayonnais vs Section Paloise (16:35 on ESPN 2) and Castres Olympique vs Stade Toulousain (21:00 on ESPN 2). Sunday 19 April sees Racing 92 take on Stade Français Paris at 21:00 CAT on ESPN 2, making for a weekend full of exhilarating rugby action.

The league features a strong South African presence, with Springbok forward Jean-Luc du Preez as well as Arno Botha and Nico Janse van Rensburg, adding local interest and familiar faces for African audiences following the action.

ESPN will air four live matches every week, showcasing the standout fixtures from each round alongside six playoff matches per season. All games will be broadcast with English commentary and graphics, allowing audiences to fully follow the narrative of the competition as it unfolds from round one through to the decisive moments.

A League Built on Rivalry and Pride

The TOP 14 carries a distinct rhythm that sets it apart. Packed stadiums, fierce local rivalries and an uncompromising style of play have made it a favourite among rugby followers around the world. The league brings together established international stars and homegrown talent, creating contests that feel personal and hard-earned from week to week.

ESPN Africa’s coverage will allow fans to follow the league in depth. The 2025 to 2026 season broadcasts will include 36 regular season matches and six playoff games, while the 2026 to 2027 and 2027 to 2028 seasons will each feature 104 regular season fixtures, plus six playoff encounters. The consistency of weekly coverage is designed to draw viewers into the ebb and flow of the competition, where momentum can shift quickly and every result matters.

Widening the Breadth of ESPN Africa’s Sports Offering

TOP 14 Rugby joins ESPN Africa’s robust rugby offering, that including the Springbok-dominated Japan Rugby League One. Furthermore, this latest addition builds on the wide range of sporting codes already available across the ESPN channels, including basketball, baseball, football, hockey, American football and more.

“We are delighted to welcome the TOP 14 French Rugby League to the ESPN Africa offering. The TOP 14 is considered the leading domestic rugby competition globally, and we are excited to offer our audiences the very best in European rugby competition alongside our wide breadth of premier sports programming,” shared Kyle De Klerk, Director of Sports at The Walt Disney Company Africa.

“This agreement with ESPN Africa marks an important step in the international growth of the TOP 14. It will give more fans across a major rugby region the opportunity to experience the intensity, passion and unique identity of French professional rugby,” said Yann Roubert, President of the Ligue Nationale de Rugby.

For updates regarding the French TOP 14 rugby and other sports, fans can connect to @ESPNAfrica on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram or visit ESPN.

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