Canal+ President Maxime Saada has declared that the platform will not be carrying the newly established LFP channel for broadcasting Ligue 1 matches. In an interview with French sports publication L’Équipe, Saada stated, “If the LFP launches its television platform to broadcast Ligue 1, it will not be able to rely on Canal+ to be the support.”
He further explained, “Canal+ is throwing in the towel. We have chosen to give up. To date, we consider that the conditions are not met for Canal+ to distribute the new Ligue 1 platform.” Saada attributed the decision to the pricing demanded by the LFP, arguing that the requested fee is excessively high. He pointed out that Canal+ sells its European Cup pass for €10, while the LFP seeks €20, and this doesn't even include all the available matches.
Following the appointment of former M6 executive Nicolas de Tavernost as head of LFP Media, many anticipated a resolution to the tensions between Canal+ and its former long-term partner. However, a continuation of this cold war now seems increasingly probable.