As of 1 January 2009 “Idman Azerbaijan” (“Sport Azerbaijan”) TV channel began operating.
Azerbaijan TV Closed Shareholding Company Press Service Head Khatira Gasimova told the Institute for Reporters’ Freedom and Safety that from 1 January to 22 January the TV channel will air its test broadcastings for three hours a day. Then the broadcasting period will reach 11 hours and 12-15 hours eventually. According to Gasimova, after the TV channel successfully finishes the test period in Baku, its programs will be broadcast countrywide, and it will be possible to watch the channel via satellite abroad.
Gasimova noted that the TV channel will broadcast international competitions in Azerbaijani, and will also broadcast documentaries in connection with local and international competitions of football, volleyball, wrestling, judo, athletics and other sports.
The result of the tender declared by the National TV and Radio Council to open a sports channel was announced on 18 July 2008. According to the results of the tender, Azerbaijan TV and Radio Closed Shareholding Company was announced the winner of the tender.
Gasimova noted that the TV channel will broadcast international competitions in Azerbaijani, and will also broadcast documentaries in connection with local and international competitions of football, volleyball, wrestling, judo, athletics and other sports.
The result of the tender declared by the National TV and Radio Council to open a sports channel was announced on 18 July 2008. According to the results of the tender, Azerbaijan TV and Radio Closed Shareholding Company was announced the winner of the tender.