Ligue 1 matches could soon be available for free on television

A measure that could delight many fans is under consideration. After several delays, the French National Assembly examined a bill on Monday aimed at reforming French football. Among the amendments discussed is a requirement to broadcast one Ligue 1 match for free each week on television.

The provision is being studied in a public session this Monday. The deputies behind the amendment argue that ‘the increasing number of broadcasters for various sports competitions, and thus the proliferation of paid subscriptions, strongly distances spectators from sporting events and encourages the growth of piracy.’

A contested proposal

The proposal has drawn strong opposition from professional leagues and several sports stakeholders. In a joint statement, they argue that such a measure ‘would mechanically reduce the value of rights, precisely when French sport needs to diversify its resources and strengthen its funding.’ Additionally, 22 presidents of Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 clubs have denounced the plan as ‘not neutral.’

The text is far from being finally adopted. It may be amended after the debates in the National Assembly, before being examined in a joint committee on July 21. Beyond the issue of free broadcast, the bill also addresses anti-piracy measures, strengthening the role of federations and the Ministry of Sports in the governance of professional leagues, redistribution of audiovisual revenues, and capping executive compensation.