PORT OF SPAIN, July 10, 2025 – Telecommunications giant Digicel Group has officially announced the shutdown of Loop News and SportsMax, two of the Caribbean’s most recognized media brands. The decision is part of a sweeping strategic shift away from consumer media toward enterprise-focused (B2B) services such as cybersecurity, cloud computing, and IT solutions.
⚠️ Media Powerhouses Go Dark
In a shocking move that has sent ripples throughout the Caribbean media landscape:
- Loop News, the region’s go-to digital news source for over a decade, has been shut down effective immediately.
- SportsMax, the home of Caribbean sports broadcasting since 2002, will cease operations on August 8, 2025.
This decision was confirmed in multiple official releases and news reports across Trinidad & Tobago, Jamaica, and the wider Caribbean.
📉 Why Is Digicel Exiting Consumer Media?
The decision marks a clear pivot by Digicel to focus on high-growth enterprise services. Several core reasons behind the exit include:
- Heavy Debt Load: Digicel is managing a staggering US$2.8 billion in debt, with $2.3 billion due in mid-2026.
- Declining B2C Profitability: Over 75% of Digicel’s revenues come from prepaid mobile services, a segment that has plateaued in emerging markets.
- Enterprise Expansion: The company recently acquired Symptai, a Jamaica-based tech firm, to bolster its cybersecurity and data solutions portfolio.
According to Digicel, this transformation is necessary to ensure financial sustainability and long-term growth in an increasingly digital global economy.
💼 Nearly 100 Jobs Lost Across the Region
The closures have resulted in the loss of approximately 100 jobs, including:
- Around 80 employees at SportsMax
- Over 10 full-time staff at Loop News, plus several freelance contributors
Digicel has stated that all affected employees have been notified and will receive severance packages and transition support in line with local labor laws.
“We are committed to supporting our people through this process,” a Digicel spokesperson said.
🏟️ A Cultural and Media Legacy Comes to an End
The end of these two media institutions represents a massive cultural shift:
- Loop News was a pioneer in regional digital journalism, earning multiple awards and attracting millions of monthly readers.
- SportsMax brought Caribbean audiences coverage of the Olympics, UEFA Champions League, IPL, La Liga, and local cricket and football events.
Many former staff and fans have described the shutdown as “the end of an era.”
“Loop helped shape the modern Caribbean media experience,” said one former employee.
“SportsMax gave us access to global sport with a local voice,” added a longtime viewer.
📺 What Happens to the Content?
Digicel has not yet confirmed whether any of the content or programming rights will be acquired by third parties. The company only stated that its B2B focus “will not impact connectivity or mobile services for consumers.”
In short, Loop News is gone, and SportsMax will disappear in a matter of weeks, with no successor in sight.
🎯 What This Means for Caribbean Media
This move represents more than a corporate pivot—it signals a possible media vacuum in the region:
- Who will take Loop’s place as the digital news leader?
- Can regional sports fans find a new home for Caribbean-friendly coverage?
- Will Digicel’s tech-first B2B bet pay off?
Only time will tell. For now, the Caribbean is losing two of its most iconic media voices.
📣 Join the Conversation
💬 What are your thoughts on Digicel’s decision?
Did you use Loop News or watch SportsMax? Let us know in the comments and share your memories of these iconic platforms.
