About

RTP Internacional history, coverage, features

RTP Internacional, also known as RTPi, is a free-to-air Portuguese-language channel operated by the public broadcaster Rádio e Televisão de Portugal (RTP). It broadcasts across various regions, including Canada, the USA, Europe (Germany, France, Belgium, Spain, and others), South America (Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, Uruguay, and more), Oceania, Asia, and the Middle East, using satellite, cable, and terrestrial methods.

Established in June 1992, RTPi was the first international channel in Portuguese aimed at the Portuguese diaspora community. Initially, it broadcast for only six hours a day but has since evolved into a 24-hour channel offering a mix of content sourced from RTP's national and regional channels, as well as original programming.

To better serve its international audience, RTPi introduced English subtitles for a portion of its programming. The channel functions as a generalist platform, featuring diverse content ranging from news and entertainment to sports, with a particular emphasis on football.

RTP Internacional’s sports coverage primarily focuses on Portuguese football, providing the diaspora and international fans access to the country's domestic top-flight league and cup competitions. Historically, RTPi has been involved in televising the Primeira Liga in North America, South America, and beyond, although this can change depending on broadcast rights. Additionally, the channel has aired select live fixtures from the Taça de Portugal.

While RTP Internacional is available as a free-to-air channel, it can also be accessed through pay-TV providers in Canada, the USA, and other regions. In Canada, viewers can find RTPi on platforms like Bell TV, Rogers Cable, and NexTV, while in the USA, it is offered through providers such as Dish Network, Xfinity, and COX.