The departure to Kylian Mbappe, Lionel Messi and Neymar from Paris Saint-Germain marked the end of an era in French football. For several years, these three superstars were expected to raise Ligue 1’s global profile and establish PSG as a dominant force in Europe. Instead, Their time together were injured by internal conflicts, underwear Uefa Champions League campaigns and lack of cohesion.
Now the French league knows the posters. Without its biggest stars, Ligue 1 has struggled to maintain its appealAnd the consequences have extended beyond the plan. The latest sign of trouble includes Dazn, the league’s main transmitter.
Over the years then ‘msn’ trio were on psg, ligue 1 enjoyed Unmatched global attention. Now, with those stars away, the league faces a hard reality: Its appeal was built around individuals, not the strength of the competition itself.
According to RMC SportDazn’s relationship with Professional Soccer League (LFP) have become increasingly strained since the British transmitter secured Domestic broadcast rights for Ligue 1. The partnership, which was originally expected to provide the financial stability of the French clubs, has instead been tormented by Missed payments, disputes about access to content and disagreements about how to fight piracy.
Tensions reached a breaking point in Februarywhen Dazn held back a payment of $ 38 millionWith reference to frustration over the league’s failure to strengthen its actions against piracy. Although the payment was eventually made, the damage was made. Discussions between Dazn and LFP – now involves a mediator – have since then Failed to produce some meaningful progress.
Fighting product and falling expectations
While Ligue 1 remains home for exciting talents as Warren Zaire-Emery, Bradley Barcola and Ousmane DembeleIts global marketing has suffered a lot since the biggest stars. This has been translated to Overwhelming subscription number for Dazn.
In spite of France’s population of 68 millionDazns Ligue 1 package has attracted only 500,000 subscribers—Far below the esteemed 1.5 million needed for the broadcasting company to break evenly.
To add the transmitter’s frustration is The lack of cooperation from Ligue 1 clubs. The transmitter reportedly suggested one Action plan to improve media accessIncluding more exclusive interviews and content behind the scenes. However, Some clubs have refused to grant accessFurther limiting Dazn’s ability to market the product effectively.
A mediator involved in the discussions has acknowledged Dazn’s concern and says that league’s marketing efforts have not been sufficient. LFP’s proposed solution – impressive financial penalties at clubs that do not meet their media commitments—Has failed to convince Dazn.
Potentially early exit?
By the situation worsen Dazn is now Seriously considering to terminate their contract by the end of the seasonpotentially leaves Ligue 1 without a primary broadcasting company far earlier than expected.
Legally is Dazn Only allowed to trigger an exit clause in December 2025But frustration over the lack of progress in the negotiations has driven discussions about an even earlier departure. If it comes with this decision, the consequences can be serious for Ligue 1 clubs. Many teams strongly relies on broadcast revenueand another missed payment could throw multiple clubs to economic instability.
At the moment, one Friendly solution remain possible. Dazn could agree to abstain from a contract clause This prevents LFP from negotiating with other broadcasters, which allows the league to apply for alternative offers. But all eyes will be at April 30When Dazn is expected to make its next payment of EUR 70 million. If this payment is delayed – or not made at all – may it be the clearest sign yet French Football is on the verge of a major broadcast crisis.
