France Télévisions Launches Innovative Digital Sports Channel for 2026 Winter Olympics and Beyond

France Télévisions is set to revolutionize sports broadcasting in 2026 with the launch of a new permanent digital sports channel, debuting on February 4, just ahead of the Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina. The channel aims to deliver an ambitious 2,000 hours of live sports coverage throughout the year, extending beyond the Games to include major events such as Roland-Garros and the Tour de France, as well as competitions like the World Figure Skating Championships, European Swimming Championships, and women's basketball and volleyball leagues.

This channel introduces an innovative interactive format inspired by Twitch, enabling viewers to engage in live chats with commentators and experts during broadcasts. Nicolas Vinoy, France Télévisions' director of digital offerings, highlighted that while the platform is Twitch-inspired, it is distinct in offering live images alongside interactive discussions. A dedicated program, 'Live Club,' will foster post-event interactions, further enhancing viewer participation.

The Winter Olympics coverage will be extensive, with around 50 journalists and 25 consultants, including notable personalities such as Nathalie Péchalat and Luc Alphand, supporting the production. Tennis player Alizé Lim will be among the hosts representing the channel's fresh approach.

Despite financial challenges requiring France Télévisions to find €140 million—resulting in the sale of much of its Six Nations rugby rights to TF1—the broadcaster remains committed to anchoring sports content at the heart of its strategy. Stéphane Sitbon Gomez, director of antennas and programs, emphasized that launching this channel is part of adapting to budget constraints while ensuring rich sports programming. The network is also consolidating its sports branding under 'Stade 2' to simplify communication and appeal to a younger audience, particularly on social media platforms.

Strategic partnerships will enhance the channel's offerings: Sport en France will provide content for women's basketball and volleyball championships, while a co-broadcasting agreement with Eurovision Sport will facilitate joint coverage of events like the World Championships in rowing and canoe-kayak.

Overall, this new digital channel represents France Télévisions' significant step in expanding sports exposure and viewer interaction, capitalizing on the momentum of the 2026 sporting calendar and aiming to maintain a continuous dialogue with its audience throughout the year.