DAZN have voiced strong dissatisfaction with the current situation concerning the Ligue 1 broadcasting rights for the cycle of 2024-29, for which they acquired the rights. This unhappiness was evident when they withheld a €35 million payment from the LFP last month. Although DAZN eventually made the payment, the resolution of this specific disagreement, occurring just days before a scheduled court hearing, only partially hides deeper issues.
Considering the discontent on both sides, there have been speculations about a potential comeback for Canal Plus, the historical Ligue 1 broadcaster. In a conversation with L’Équipe last week, LFP President Vincent Labrune suggested the possibility of Canal Plus returning, if they were willing to broadcast Ligue 1 at its “fair value.”
He added, “But, for now, they have not wished to do that and we cannot force them.” However, Canal Plus has now firmly dismissed the possibility. The broadcaster’s president, Maxime Saada, stated in an interview with Le Figaro: “The conditions are absolutely not aligned for Canal+’s return in this deal.”
Therefore, the chance of Canal Plus making an immediate return has been rejected. It remains uncertain under what circumstances the broadcaster might return to the negotiation process.