Next Generation Sports Broadcasting to Debut in South Africa at The 2010 FIFA World Cup

Posted by Staff Writer on Wednesday, January 6, 2010 at 9:42pm.

ESPN will usher in a new era of sports broadcasting at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.  The broadcaster owned by ABC Sports announced today that it will film and show 25 of the World Cup matches, starting with the South Africa vs. Mexico match, in 3D.

The announcement came at this year’s Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, as several Television set manufacturers prepare to unveil their latest 3D sets on Saturday.  ESPN and manufacturers like Sony are betting that US consumers are ready to invest at least $2000 a pop on these new sets.

ESPN, which is one of the largest sports broadcasters in the world also announced plans to film and show an additional 60 sporting events in 3D, including the Summer X Games.

Speaking about the development, ESPN and ABC Sports president George Bodenheimer said the company’s commitment to 3D is a “win for fans and… business partners”.

“ESPN 3D marries great content with new technology to enhance the fan’s viewing experience and puts ESPN at the forefront of the next big advance for TV viewing,” he added.

3D has recently gotten a big shot in the arm with the success of blockbuster movies such as James Cameron’s Avatar.  The film has earned well over $1 billion of box office ticket sales in just 3 weeks.

There is certainly a demand for this, as proven by the success of Avatar, the question is are viewers willing shell out the big dollars initially for the post High Definition era TV sets, and accessories.  One thing is for sure, if you’re a die-hard soccer fan, and can’t make it to South Africa for the 2010 World Cup, this is a great opportunity to enhance your World Cup experience.  ESPN is betting on it.

Learn more about: The Consumer Electronics Show (CES)