Lyon Owner Advocates for Canal+ to Regain Ligue 1 Broadcasting Rights

John Textor, the owner of Olympique Lyonnais, has expressed his desire for Canal+ to once again become the primary broadcaster of Ligue 1 matches. In a recent interview with Canal+ International, Textor emphasized the importance of rekindling the relationship between French football and the well-established TV channel.

“Canal+ should be the home of French football,” Textor stated, alluding to the need to restore the traditional partnership. He acknowledged past disagreements between Canal+ and the Professional Football League (LFP) but insisted on the necessity of reuniting the two entities.

The current broadcasting landscape for Ligue 1 changed significantly in September 2023, when DAZN and beIN Sports secured exclusive rights to air top-tier French football matches until 2029. This arrangement replaced Canal+, which had been the primary broadcaster of Ligue 1 since 1984.

During the interview, Textor was informed that Canal+ continues to broadcast Ligue 1 matches in Africa. In response, he reiterated his belief that this arrangement should be reinstated in France as well.

Despite Textor’s advocacy, the potential return of Ligue 1 to Canal+ remains uncertain. When questioned about the possibility of reacquiring broadcasting rights, Maxime Saada, a French media executive at Canal+, indicated that while it’s not currently feasible, future circumstances might allow for reconsideration.