Following a period of instability in the domestic broadcasting rights market, French football is taking a new direction independently. Starting next season, the Ligue de Football Professionnel (LFP) will introduce its own digital platform. This service is designed to stream eight Ligue 1 matches live every weekend; the ninth match will continue to be shown on beIN Sports, though with a delay. This significant decision comes after recent unsuccessful attempts to finalize a satisfactory broadcasting agreement.
In a discussion with L’Équipe, Nicolas De Tavernost, the LFP’s recently appointed commercial director and former chief of M6, provided the first insights into the upcoming project. While he conceded that achieving profitability would likely be a challenge for the initial two years, he expressed optimism, banking on a quality product
, an attractive price point, and strong editorial content to draw viewers. De Tavernost revealed, We’d be disappointed with less than a million subscribers in the first year.
He added, We’ll put the resources in place to have a high-quality offering. This won’t be a low-cost product.
Regarding the on-screen talent, De Tavernost confirmed that Xavier Domergue, previously with M6, has been hired as one of the channel`s main commentators. He hinted that announcements for more presenters and pundits of a similar standing are expected on July 10, as the LFP is currently finalizing its lineup for broadcasts.
The choice of a production partner is still undecided, with 21 Production (a division of L’Équipe) and Mediawan being the two companies under consideration.
Despite the remaining uncertainties about the platform`s launch and potential subscriber numbers, De Tavernost maintained a confident stance:
We’ll try to make this project as innovative and popular as possible. Ligue 1 is a strong product.
