Ligue 1: a free match every week under study

National assembly debates free-to-air ligue 1 matches

On Monday, the French National Assembly begins examining a bill to reform professional football. One key provision would require one Ligue 1 match per gameweek to be broadcast on free television. Currently, all matches are available only on the paid streaming platform Ligue1+, which costs at least €15 per month.

Aiming to widen access to the championship

The lawmakers behind the amendment argue that the proliferation of pay-TV broadcasters and subscription services alienates many fans and encourages illegal streaming. They say reserving a specific package for a free weekly match would increase the league’s exposure. This idea builds on a 2021 parliamentary inquiry into sports broadcasting rights led by Cédric Roussel.

Sports economist Pierre Rondeau also believes free broadcasts could attract a larger audience. He notes that the Professional Football League estimated 22 million French people are interested in Ligue 1, yet only about one million subscribe to Ligue1+.

LFP opposes the change

The LFP, however, strongly opposes the amendment. The league argues that free-to-air broadcasts could reduce the value of audiovisual rights, which account for more than half of club revenues. Discussions between the league, broadcasters, and parliamentarians intensified ahead of Monday’s session.

A broader reform of professional football

Already approved by the Senate and a National Assembly committee, the bill may still evolve during the plenary debate and a joint committee scheduled for July 21. The text also addresses anti-piracy measures, strengthening the role of federations and the Sports Ministry in governing professional leagues, redistributing broadcast revenue, and capping executive salaries.