Optus CEO Allen Lew has apologised to those of the telco’s customers who experienced a poor quality broadcast service during the opening stages of the Football World Cup in Russia.

Lew added that he was confident the firm had a solution in place and would be undertaking thorough testing of all its systems.

“We know Australian football fans are amongst the world’s most passionate, and vocal, and we clearly understand Australia’s passion for this major event, and the frustration that goes along with not being able to watch the event,” he said, adding that Optus will be simulcasting the following two nights of 2018 Fifa World Cup matches in collaboration with the SBS.

While Lew said the decision had been made with the interests of Australian football fans in mind. “Most Optus Sport viewers have had a positive viewing experience, however I acknowledge that the experience has not been consistent for all viewers, which is unacceptable,” he added.

“I offer an unreserved apology to those customers that have been let down,” Lew said. “We have a dedicated team which has been working around the clock to address technical issues where they have occurred.”