The Primedia Sport & Entertainment Masterclass 2025 has emerged as a transformative
event, successfully convening an illustrious assembly of industry leaders, including the
Honourable Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Mr. Solly Malatsi. This
year marks the third iteration of this influential thought leadership initiative, held on
August 11-12, 2025, at The Maslow Hotel in Sandton. The summit attracted key
representatives from major brands in the sport and entertainment sectors, such as PFL
Africa, SAFA, SA Rugby, SuperSport, Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates, the Gauteng Sports
Confederation, and Paramount, among others.
Headlined by the esteemed Professor Anita Elberse of Harvard Business School, the
Masterclass provided a platform for profound discourse on the future of sport and
entertainment. On Day One, Professor Elberse captivated the audience with her
interactive approach, guiding delegates through meticulously curated case studies.
Participants were equipped with comprehensive background information in advance,
fostering an environment of informed engagement. Attendees were encouraged not only
to discuss the case studies but also to critically examine the future trajectories of the
organisations involved. “I will pose the questions,” she declared, inviting participants to
grapple with the probabilities of various end scenarios, thereby stimulating a rich dialogue
that highlighted the strategic complexities of industry.
Day Two, attended by Minister Malatsi, delved into the intricacies of the video streaming
wars, spotlighting the remarkable trajectory of Netflix from its modest origins to its
current status as a global powerhouse. Delegates engaged in rigorous analysis of RedBird
Capital’s acquisition of Paramount, alongside an exploration of the burgeoning business
of video gaming. The presence of Paramount representatives in the audience further
enriched the discussions, highlighting the interconnectedness of these pivotal industry
players.
Tobie Badenhorst, Vice President of Primedia Sport, emphasized the significance of the
Masterclass for the African landscape, stating, “As we embark on our third year of this
initiative, the insights shared during the Masterclass are invaluable for shaping the future
of sport and entertainment across the African Continent. The content not only informs
industry leaders but also provides critical knowledge for policymakers, enabling them to
harness cutting-edge technology and innovative strategies that will guide and inform
effective policy-making. Professor Elberse’s exceptional delivery has inspired us all to
envision a future where Africa leads in the global sport and entertainment arena.”
The Primedia Sport & Entertainment Masterclass series has unequivocally positioned itself
as a cornerstone event for industry stakeholders, fostering connections and igniting
conversations that will shape the trajectory of sport and entertainment across the African
Continent.
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