SSC Extra 1 – A Deep Dive into Saudi Arabia’s Premier Sports Channel

Introduction

SSC Extra 1 is a specialized sports television channel under the Saudi Sports Company (SSC) umbrella, delivering premium sports content to audiences in Saudi Arabia and beyond. As part of the SSC network, SSC Extra 1 plays a crucial role in expanding sports coverage, offering live broadcasts, exclusive analysis, and in-depth reporting on domestic and international sporting events. The channel is widely recognized for its comprehensive coverage of the Saudi Pro League, AFC Champions League, international football tournaments, and other high-profile sports leagues.

History and Evolution

SSC Extra 1 was launched as an extension of Saudi Sports Company (SSC) to cater to the increasing demand for specialized sports content in the region. Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in global sports, along with the rising popularity of local and regional leagues, created the need for a dedicated platform that could deliver high-quality live coverage and analysis.

The Saudi Sports Company (SSC) was formed in 2021, marking a significant shift in Saudi Arabia’s sports broadcasting landscape. This strategic move aimed to enhance the quality of sports broadcasting in the Kingdom and provide local fans with world-class coverage of national and international competitions. The formation of SSC was part of a broader initiative to promote sports culture, develop local talent, and elevate Saudi Arabia’s global sports presence.

SSC Extra 1 was introduced as one of the additional channels under the SSC network, designed to offer simultaneous broadcasts of live matches and events, ensuring that fans never miss a moment of the action.

Programming and Coverage

SSC Extra 1 delivers a diverse mix of sports programming, featuring live broadcasts, match analysis, exclusive interviews, and behind-the-scenes content. The channel has established itself as a go-to destination for football enthusiasts, motorsports fans, and general sports lovers.

1. Football Coverage

Football is the backbone of SSC Extra 1’s programming, featuring extensive coverage of domestic, regional, and international competitions:

• Saudi Pro League (Roshn Saudi League) – The channel provides live broadcasts of top-tier Saudi football, offering fans exclusive pre-match shows, post-match analysis, and in-depth commentary.
• AFC Competitions – SSC Extra 1 holds broadcasting rights for the AFC Champions League, AFC Cup, and AFC Asian Qualifiers, ensuring that fans can follow their favorite Saudi clubs in continental tournaments.
• International Tournaments – The channel covers major events such as FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, Gulf Cup of Nations, and friendly international matches featuring the Saudi national team.

2. Motorsports and Racing

As part of Saudi Arabia’s growing investment in motorsports, SSC Extra 1 has expanded its coverage to include:

• Formula 1 and Formula E – Featuring live broadcasts of races, behind-the-scenes insights, and exclusive interviews with drivers.
• Extreme E – A championship focused on electric off-road racing, which aligns with Saudi Arabia’s vision for sustainable sports initiatives.
• Dakar Rally – Saudi Arabia’s hosting of the prestigious Dakar Rally has led SSC Extra 1 to become a major platform for rally coverage, showcasing the endurance and adventure of one of the world’s most challenging races.

3. Combat Sports and Martial Arts

SSC Extra 1 has made a name for itself in the coverage of combat sports, featuring:

• UFC and MMA Events – Live broadcasts of Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) fights, along with expert breakdowns and fighter interviews.
• Boxing Showdowns – Covering international boxing matches, including Saudi-hosted high-profile fights such as the Riyadh Season boxing events.

4. Other Sports and Exclusive Content

SSC Extra 1 extends beyond traditional sports coverage, providing:

• Saudi Basketball League and Volleyball Championships – Highlighting the growing popularity of other sports in the Kingdom.
• Special Features on Saudi Athletes – Exclusive documentaries and interviews with Saudi sports personalities, aiming to inspire the next generation of athletes.
• Esports and Gaming Events – Coverage of major esports tournaments held in Saudi Arabia, reflecting the Kingdom’s investment in digital entertainment.

Ownership and Broadcasting Rights

SSC Extra 1 is operated by Saudi Sports Company (SSC), which is owned by Saudi Media Company (SMC) in collaboration with Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Sport. The formation of SSC marked a shift in sports broadcasting rights, securing exclusive partnerships with local and international sports organizations.

Broadcasting Rights and Partnerships

SSC Extra 1 is part of a network that has secured broadcasting deals with major sports governing bodies, including:

• FIFA – Rights to Saudi Arabia’s national team matches.
• Asian Football Confederation (AFC) – Exclusive broadcasting of AFC tournaments.
• Formula 1 and Formula E – Ensuring live motorsports coverage.
• International Boxing and MMA Organizations – Covering combat sports events held in Saudi Arabia and beyond.

Impact and Audience Engagement

SSC Extra 1 has gained a loyal and passionate viewership in Saudi Arabia and across the Middle East. The channel’s success can be attributed to its high-quality production, engaging analysis, and exclusive access to top-tier sporting events.

Key Factors Behind Its Popularity

• Comprehensive Local and International Sports Coverage – SSC Extra 1 provides unmatched access to major sporting events.
• High-Definition Broadcasts – Ensuring an immersive viewing experience with 4K Ultra HD and Dolby Atmos sound technology.
• Expert Commentary and Analysis – Featuring renowned sports analysts, former athletes, and football legends.
• Multi-Platform Accessibility – Available on satellite, cable, and digital streaming platforms like Shahid VIP.

Future Prospects and Expansion

As Saudi Arabia continues to invest heavily in sports, SSC Extra 1 is expected to expand its coverage and enhance its broadcasting capabilities. The future plans for the channel include:

• Exclusive Documentaries and Original Content – Showcasing the journey of Saudi athletes and historic sports moments.
• Expansion of Digital Streaming – Strengthening online presence via OTT platforms and mobile apps.
• Strategic Partnerships with Global Sports Leagues – Exploring opportunities to acquire broadcasting rights for European leagues and American sports.
• Localized Fan Engagement – Introducing Arabic-language commentary for more international sporting events to cater to regional audiences.

Conclusion

SSC Extra 1 has cemented itself as a premier sports channel in Saudi Arabia, providing unparalleled access to football, motorsports, combat sports, and other major sporting events. As part of Saudi Sports Company (SSC), the channel plays a pivotal role in elevating sports broadcasting standards and enhancing Saudi Arabia’s presence on the global sports stage.

With continued investment in sports rights, technology, and fan engagement, SSC Extra 1 is set to remain at the forefront of sports entertainment in the Kingdom and the broader Middle East. Whether it’s live matches, expert analysis, or exclusive behind-the-scenes content, SSC Extra 1 delivers an unmatched sports viewing experience for fans across the region.