Vincent Labrune, president of the LFP, revealed that he offered to step down in an attempt to facilitate Canal+’s return to the Ligue 1 TV rights negotiations, but to no avail.
In an interview with L’Équipe, Labrune blamed his predecessors for the fallout with the historic broadcaster, emphasizing the need for reconciliation. “The former league officials sealed the divorce with Canal+, which now holds an almost monopolistic position. We are still suffering the consequences today,” he stated.
The LFP president reiterated his desire to mend ties with Canal+, acknowledging its importance for the future of French football.
“Like everyone in football, I regret that Canal+ refused to take part in our latest bidding process. I did everything I could to bring them back to the table. That was also the point of our long discussions with beIN, since negotiating with beIN indirectly means negotiating with Canal+, which distributes them exclusively. If tomorrow, Canal+ wants to broadcast Ligue 1 at its fair value, they will be welcome. But for now, they have chosen not to, and we cannot force them.”
Labrune’s comments highlight the ongoing crisis surrounding Ligue 1 TV rights, with the league still struggling to secure a long-term and stable broadcasting deal.
