Cablevision Adding beIN SPORTS Nets

Cablevision Systems' Optimum TV is adding the English and Spanish language networks of beIN SPORTS, starting with a March 20-23 free preview for all customers, the programmer and distributor said. That preview period will include an El Clásico match between Spanish soccer rivals Real Madrid and Barcelona on March 23.

beIN SPORTS en Español and English-language beIN SPORTS will be available on channels 154 and 155 respectively in standard and high definition. After the preview ends on March 23, beIN SPORTS will be available to Optimum TV residential customers with either Optimum Gold or the Optimum Sports and Entertainment package. And beIN SPORTS en Español will be available to customers who subscribe to the Optimum en Español Spanish-language programming package. All customers must have a digital set-top box or CableCARD to receive beIN SPORTS. The networks also will be available to subscribing Optimum TV residential customers via the TV to GO online service outside the home and via the Optimum App for eligible devices.

beIN SPORTS coverage includes European soccer leagues La Liga (Spain), Serie A (Italy), Ligue 1 (France) and the English Championship (second division.) Copa del Rey, South American World Cup Qualifier and other soccer coverage is also part of the mix, as well as motorsports, tennis, rugby, volleyball and golf contests.

“beIN SPORTS delivers unique and exciting programming that Optimum TV customers are passionate about. This addition further enhances our rich selection of live sports programming,” Bradley Feldman, Cablevision’s senior vice president of product management, said in a release. “Now, Optimum TV soccer fans can catch even more of the world’s most exciting matches as the action happens.”