PARIS, September 25, 2025 — Ligue 1+ is poised for a potential expansion of its content offerings, with discussions underway to include World Cup matches, a move that could significantly alter the French broadcasting landscape.
A Potential Game-Changer for Ligue 1+
Adding the World Cup to Ligue 1+’s lineup could attract new subscribers and reduce churn.
- Securing the rights to the World Cup would mark a substantial step forward for Ligue 1+, which has faced challenges establishing itself in the French market.
- The World Cup could serve as a “loss leader,” incentivizing sign-ups and retaining subscribers during typically slower summer months.
- This expansion raises the possibility of Ligue 1+ evolving into a more comprehensive soccer streaming service.
- The platform has already achieved a solid start, surpassing one million active subscribers.
The potential deal represents a significant evolution for Ligue 1+, still working to solidify its position in the French broadcasting market after a series of less-than-successful media rights agreements. The service currently boasts over one million active subscribers, and adding high-profile content like the World Cup could be a key strategy for growth.
Attracting and Retaining Subscribers
The World Cup’s appeal could function as a strategic “loss leader,” drawing in new fans and encouraging longer-term subscriptions. Offering such a major event could also discourage existing subscribers from canceling their services during the summer, a period often marked by increased churn.
What is a “loss leader”? A loss leader is a product or service sold at a price below its market cost to attract customers. The hope is that these customers will then purchase other, more profitable items.
Beyond immediate subscriber gains, the move could position Ligue 1+ to become a more general soccer-focused service. This broader appeal could unlock opportunities to increase market share and overall revenue streams. The platform’s current offerings, combined with the prestige of the World Cup, could create a compelling package for soccer fans in France.
