Could ligue 1 matches be free to air each week?

On Monday, the National Assembly is reviewing a bill aimed at reforming professional football. Among the proposals under discussion is an amendment that would require one Ligue 1 match per round to be broadcast on free-to-air television. Supporters argue this would increase the league’s visibility and curb piracy, while the LFP fears it could devalue audiovisual rights, which provide the bulk of revenue for French professional clubs.

A free-to-air Ligue 1 match at the heart of discussions

The National Assembly is debating the proposed law to overhaul professional soccer on Monday. One of the provisions under scrutiny is an amendment that would require one Ligue 1 fixture each matchday to be aired without a subscription. This measure, which has been floated in recent months, comes at a time when matches are available only on the Ligue1+ platform, which costs a minimum of 15 euros per month.

A stated goal: broadening access to the championship

The lawmakers behind the amendment believe that the proliferation of broadcasters and pay-TV subscriptions is alienating part of the audience from sports competitions and encouraging illegal streaming. They argue that setting aside a specific package for one free weekly match would boost the profile of the French league. The proposal draws on findings from a 2021 parliamentary fact-finding mission on sports broadcasting rights led by Cédric Roussel.

Sports economist Pierre Rondeau also thinks free-to-air broadcasts could attract a broader audience. He notes that the Professional Football League estimated 22 million French people are interested in Ligue 1, compared to roughly one million subscribers to Ligue1+.

LFP opposes this change

However, the LFP is against this amendment. The governing body fears that free-to-air broadcasts could reduce the value of television rights, which account for more than half of club revenues. Talks between the league, broadcasters, and lawmakers have intensified ahead of the bill’s review.

A broader reform of professional football

Already passed by the Senate and then reviewed in committee at the National Assembly, the bill could still be amended after floor debate, ahead of a joint committee scheduled for July 21. The legislation also addresses anti-piracy measures, strengthening the role of federations and the Ministry of Sports in governing professional leagues, redistributing audiovisual revenue, and capping executive pay.