As the 2024/25 Ligue 1 season approaches, the league is still scrambling to find a solution to its television rights predicament. While several proposals were discussed at a recent board meeting, no consensus has been reached. However, it seems a partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery is increasingly likely.
According to RMC Sport, Warner Bros. Discovery has proposed integrating Ligue 1 matches into its Max streaming service’s premium package. Subscribers would pay €27.99 per month to access all Max content, including live Ligue 1 matches. However, this partnership lacks a guaranteed minimum income, which has caused concern among some club presidents. The advantage of this deal, however, is the wide exposure it would provide Ligue 1 as Max is one of the major content providers in the market.
While many club presidents, like Joseph Oughourlian of Lens and Laurent Prudhomme of Lyon, support the creation of a dedicated channel to ensure Ligue 1’s long-term development, some remain skeptical. They have questioned the league’s decision-making process, particularly the sudden introduction of negotiations with Warner Bros. without prior notice.
Meanwhile, clubs with precarious financial situations, such as Nantes and Montpellier, are more concerned about immediate financial aid to ensure timely payment of salaries. Sebastien Cazal, the Ligue 1 financial director, has proposed a €200 million credit line for these clubs to temporarily alleviate financial pressures, but this money would need to be repaid later.
It’s worth noting that Nasser, the president of Paris Saint-Germain, strongly opposes a partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery, considering it a “bad idea.” However, CVC, Ligue 1’s capital partner, strongly supports the collaboration and urges its swift implementation to ensure all preparations are complete before the season starts.
On the other hand, DAZN’s offer has not found favor with club presidents, primarily due to concerns about the complex financial situation of its parent company. Ligue 1 president Vincent Labrune is trying to maintain neutrality, hoping clubs will make their own decisions about the future. However, time is running out, and the situation is becoming increasingly urgent.
Currently, Ligue 1 faces unprecedented challenges, not only in making critical decisions in a short timeframe but also in potentially facing a “national embarrassment” – starting the new season without a confirmed broadcast arrangement. In the coming days, Ligue 1 will continue negotiating with Warner Bros. Discovery and other potential partners, seeking the best possible solution.
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