The French Professional Football League has set the stage for a groundbreaking shift in how fans experience Ligue 1 matches with the imminent launch of its direct-to-consumer streaming service, Ligue 1+. This move comes in the wake of multiple failed broadcast deals, prompting the league to take matters into its own hands and connect directly with supporters.
“Ligue 1+ will be a game-changer in how fans engage with our matches,”
expressed Vincent Labrune, President of the LFP. The new platform aims to captivate audiences by offering exclusive live broadcasts of eight games per week, starting from August 15th. In addition to live matches, pivotal events like the Trophée des Champions and relegation playoffs will also be part of the package.
To sweeten the deal and entice a wide range of subscribers, including younger viewers keen on digital content consumption, pricing plans have been strategically crafted. An annual subscription will cost €14.99 per month, while those opting for a month-to-month plan will pay €19.99. A discounted rate of €9.99 is available for viewers under 26 years old.
The introduction of Ligue 1+ marks a significant departure from traditional broadcasting models and underscores the league’s commitment to innovation in delivering top-tier football action directly to fans’ screens. As Nicolas De Tavernost, LFP Media chief executive stated,
“We are exploring new avenues to engage our audience and redefine French football viewing experience.”
With an ambitious target of reaching one million subscribers by the end of the season and projections aiming for over two million subscribers within four years, the stakes are high for this pioneering venture in French sports broadcasting.
Incorporating a diverse lineup beyond match broadcasts adds depth to Ligue 1+, as docuseries featuring prominent players like OGC Nice captain Dante promise behind-the-scenes insights that go beyond regular match coverage. The channel also sets its sights on varied programming such as children’s shows and esports content to cater to different interests within its fan base.
While established telecom providers like Orange and sports streaming giant DAZN have jumped onboard as distributors for Ligue 1+, negotiations remain open with other potential partners like Canal+. This multi-platform distribution strategy signals a concerted effort to maximize reach and ensure widespread access among football enthusiasts across France.
The transition towards direct-to-consumer streaming services represents a pivotal moment not only for Ligue 1 but also sets a precedent for other leagues navigating an evolving media landscape rife with fragmentation. By taking control of their content delivery through platforms like Ligue 1+, leagues can forge deeper connections with fans while adapting to shifting consumer preferences in digital entertainment consumption.
As French football embarks on this bold experiment with Ligue 1+, it paves the way for an exciting era where sports organizations harness technology to create immersive experiences that resonate with modern audiences hungry for dynamic content delivery straight from the field to their fingertips.
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