The departure of Kylian Mbappe, Lionel Messi, and Neymar from Paris Saint-Germain marked the end of an era in French soccer. Now, the French league is feeling the aftershocks.
The departure of Kylian Mbappe, Lionel Messi, and Neymar from Paris Saint-Germain marked the end of an era in French soccer. For years, these three superstars were expected to elevate Ligue 1’s global profile and establish PSG as a dominant force in Europe. Instead, their time together was marred by internal conflicts, underwhelming UEFA Champions League campaigns, and a lack of cohesion.
Now, the French league is feeling the aftershocks. Without its biggest stars, Ligue 1 has struggled to maintain its appeal, and the consequences have extended beyond the pitch. The latest sign of trouble includes DAZN, the league’s main broadcaster.
In the years when the ‘MSN’ trio were at PSG, Ligue 1 enjoyed unprecedented global attention. Now, with those stars gone, the league faces a harsh reality: its appeal was built around individuals, not the strength of the competition itself.
According to RMC Sport, DAZN’s relationship with Ligue de Soccer Professionnel (LFP) has become increasingly strained since the British broadcaster secured domestic broadcasting rights for Ligue 1. The partnership, initially expected to provide financial stability to French clubs, has instead been plagued by missed payments, disputes over content access, and disagreements on how to combat piracy.
Tensions reached a breaking point in February, when DAZN withheld a $38 million payment, citing frustration over the league’s failure to strengthen its anti-piracy measures. Although the payment was eventually made, the damage was done. Discussions between DAZN and the LFP—now involving a mediator—have since failed to produce any meaningful progress.
Struggling product and falling expectations
While Ligue 1 remains home to exciting talents like Warren Zaire-Emery, Bradley Barcola, and Ousmane Dembele, its global marketability has suffered greatly since the departure of its biggest stars. This has translated into underwhelming subscription numbers for DAZN.
Despite France’s population of 68 million, DAZN’s Ligue 1 package has only attracted 500,000 subscribers—far below the estimated 1.5 million needed for the broadcaster to break even.
Adding to the broadcaster’s frustration is the lack of cooperation from Ligue 1 clubs. The broadcaster reportedly proposed an action plan to improve media access, including more exclusive interviews and behind-the-scenes content. However, certain clubs have refused to grant access, further limiting DAZN’s ability to promote the product effectively.
A mediator involved in the discussions has acknowledged DAZN’s concerns, stating that the league’s promotional efforts have not been sufficient. However, the LFP’s proposed solution—imposing financial penalties on clubs that do not meet their media commitments—has failed to convince DAZN.
Potential early exit?
With the situation worsening, DAZN is now seriously considering terminating its contract at the end of the season, potentially leaving Ligue 1 without a primary broadcaster far sooner than expected.
Legally, DAZN is only allowed to trigger an exit clause in December 2025, but frustration over the lack of progress in negotiations has fueled discussions about an even earlier departure. If it follows through with this decision, the consequences could be severe for Ligue 1 clubs. Many teams heavily rely on broadcasting revenue, and another missed payment could plunge several clubs into financial instability.
For now, an amicable solution remains possible. DAZN could agree to waive a contractual clause that prevents the LFP from negotiating with other broadcasters, allowing the league to seek alternative deals. However, all eyes will be on April 30, when DAZN is expected to make its next payment of €70 million. If this payment is delayed—or not made at all—it could be the clearest sign yet that French soccer is on the verge of a major broadcasting crisis.
