Football Broadcasting Rights in France: What Will it Cost in 2025-2026?

As the 2025-2026 season approaches, the financial stakes in football broadcasting rights have become a focal point in French sports media. The cost of securing these rights has seen significant increases, driven by intense competition among broadcasters for premium content.

Major broadcasters are reportedly prepared to invest heavily to secure exclusive rights to Ligue 1 matches and other football events. The market trend indicates that broadcaster spending could eclipse previous seasons, with expectations of new deals totaling upwards of €600 million, reflecting a growing appetite for live sports content.

With last season's rights costing about €570 million, the upcoming season could signal a bidding war, as networks vie for the attention of passionate football fans across France. This rising cost parallels the global trend in sports broadcasting, where rights have surged sharply in various regions.

Experts suggest that the mounting costs are likely to reshape the landscape of football broadcasting, potentially affecting subscription prices for viewers. The current environment underscores the increasing importance of football as a pivotal content driver for television and streaming services, establishing a new trajectory for investment in live sports coverage in France.