Ligue 1 recently launched its D2C streaming platform in response to well-documented media rights challenges. Initial results are positive, with subscriptions already matching DAZN’s total from last season (SportsPro, 2025) indicating the league can capture fan attention, while owning the fan relationship – though the revenue impact remains unclear.

Sustaining subscriber growth will be challenging, once launch-promotions end. To capture fan attention, the league must deliver a high-quality product, which the uncertainty around media rights puts at risk. This summer, Ligue 1 clubs have the highest net transfer surplus of the past 5 years, suggesting they are using player trading to fill revenue gaps, potentially at the expense of long-term product quality.

The league must also offer fans a differentiated viewing experience with unique, personalised content delivered at pace, via the distribution channels relevant to each individual.

How this pans out is TBD, but competitors will be watching with interest.