‘No discussions for Ligue 1’ – Netflix not interested in TV rights for Ligue 1

In an interview with L’Équipe, Gabe Spitzer, Head of Netflix Sport has discussed the possibility of Netflix acquiring the TV rights for Ligue 1 in France. 

Presently, Netflix’s rivals, Prime Video obtain the lion’s share of the TV rights for the French top flight in France. Canal+ also broadcasts 2 Ligue 1 matches each match week. However, the broadcasting rights for Ligue 1 are up for renewal for the next 5 year cycle in 2024 which has sparked debate about who will be broadcasting the League of Talents from next season. 

The LFP previously received no bids for the TV rights when they launched a tender in October 2023. They hope to earn €800m for the next cycle of broadcasting rights. Since this tender was launched, Apple TV has shown an interest in acquiring broadcasting rights in recent months, according to RMC Sport.

With Prime Video and Apple TV both acquiring the broadcasting rights of football in recent years, many will be wondering if Netflix were considering following their two biggest competitors in the streaming industry. When asked by L’Équipe, Gabe Spitzer distanced Netflix from acquiring Ligue 1 broadcasting rights, “No, we have not discussed with the LFP for Ligue 1. We are focused on programming documentary franchises such as DTS, Full Swing, Break Point, Tour de France: Unchained, Six Nations: Full Contact… and not specifically on live sports rights.”

GFFN | Liam Wraith