The departure of Kylian Mbappé has led to a significant drop in Ligue 1’s appeal, and the latest TV rights deal could further exacerbate this decline.
According to French newspaper L’Équipe, Ligue 1 clubs could face major financial challenges. The recent auction of domestic TV rights, which saw DAZN and beIN Sports acquire the rights for around €500 million, is expected to have a direct and significant impact on French top-flight clubs. The average TV revenue for Ligue 1 clubs is projected to decline by approximately 60% compared to last season.
In short, Ligue 1 clubs will need to prepare for financial austerity, while French fans will face higher viewing costs: up to €45 per month. This seems like a lose-lose situation.
Vincent Labrune, president of the Ligue de Football Professionnel (LFP), had hoped for TV rights to generate over €900 million for the league, setting an ambitious goal of reaching €1 billion in total revenue through international rights. However, the final result sees Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 clubs receive only €228 million, while operating costs have risen from €156 million the previous year to €272 million.
At the club level, reigning champions Paris Saint-Germain, for instance, are only expected to receive around €22 million in TV revenue even if they win the Ligue 1 title again, compared to €60 million last season. According to RMC Sport, the first round of Ligue 1 matches will not be broadcast in the UK, Spain, and Italy, with the LFP currently negotiating with broadcasters to find suitable platforms for these markets.
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