John Textor Advocates for Canal+’s Return to Ligue 1 Broadcasting
John Textor, the owner of Olympique Lyonnais, has expressed his strong desire for Canal+ to regain the exclusive broadcasting rights for Ligue 1 in France. In a recent interview on Canal+ International, Textor reminisced about the channel’s long-standing relationship with French football and emphasized the need to rekindle that partnership. "Football in France should be on Canal," he stated, suggesting that the current situation with DAZN and beIN is not ideal. Textor’s comments reflect a growing sentiment among French football enthusiasts who miss the familiarity and quality of Canal+ broadcasts, which have been a cornerstone of the sport’s coverage since 1984.
The Historical Significance of Canal+
Canal+ has a rich history with Ligue 1, having broadcast top-flight French football for almost four decades. The channel’s association with the league began in 1984 and continued uninterrupted until the start of the 2023-24 season. During this period, Canal+ not only provided high-quality coverage but also played a significant role in the growth and popularity of French football both domestically and internationally. The change to DAZN and beIN marked a significant shift, one that Textor believes has left a void in the French football broadcasting landscape. He noted, "I don’t know what happened with all the leaders of French football, but it is a marriage that must be made once more," highlighting the deep-rooted connection between Canal+ and the sport.
Current Broadcasting Landscape and Its Challenges
As of this season, DAZN and beIN have taken over the exclusive broadcasting rights for Ligue 1 in France, a move that was announced in September 2023. This change was driven by financial considerations and the desire to modernize the broadcasting approach. However, the transition has not been without its challenges. Both DAZN and beIN are relatively new to the French market, and fans have had to adapt to new platforms and viewing schedules. Textor’s call for Canal+ to return is rooted in the belief that the channel’s experience and reputation can offer a more stable and perhaps even more engaging experience for viewers. He cited the channel’s current role in broadcasting Ligue 1 in Africa as a testament to its capabilities and suggested that this success could be replicated in France.
The Senate Committee’s Inquiry and Potential Changes
In late January, the Senate Committee on Culture addressed the issue of Ligue 1 broadcasting with French media executive Maxime Saada of Canal+. The committee asked whether Canal+ might consider re-acquiring the rights in the future, to which Saada responded that the door is currently closed but that circumstances may change. This dialogue reflects the political and cultural significance of football in France and the interest in ensuring that the sport remains accessible and enjoyable for a wide audience. Textor’s advocacy for Canal+ adds weight to this discussion, as his position as a prominent club owner gives him a unique perspective on the impact of broadcasting changes on the league and its fans.
The Fan Experience and Market Dynamics
Textor’s comments underscore the importance of the fan experience in shaping the future of Ligue 1 broadcasting. He argued that the return of Canal+ could enhance the viewing experience and potentially attract more fans to the league. The premium French network’s extensive reach and established reputation are key factors in this argument. Moreover, the financial sustainability of the league is a critical consideration. DAZN and beIN’s takeover was partly motivated by the need to inject substantial funds into French football, but Textor believes that the long-term benefits of Canal+’s involvement, such as building a loyal fan base and fostering a strong brand identity, could outweigh the short-term financial gains.
A Call for Collaboration and Future Prospects
Ultimately, Textor’s call for Canal+ to return to Ligue 1 broadcasting is a plea for collaboration and a return to what many consider to be a more harmonious arrangement. He emphasizes the need for French football leaders to reconsider their current strategy and explore the possibility of bringing back Canal+. The potential for a future change in circumstances, as acknowledged by Saada, leaves the door open for discussions. Textor’s advocacy, combined with the Senate Committee’s interest, could potentially influence the Ligue de Football Professionnel (LFP) to reassess its broadcasting contracts. For now, the focus remains on enhancing the current broadcasting setup, but the seeds of a potential change have been sown, and they could bear fruit in the coming years.
