France/Canal+: distribution agreement with TF1 group not renewed due to "unreasonable demands"

Canal+ will not be renewing its distribution agreement with the TF1 group for the broadcasting of its free DTT channels (TF1, TMC, TFX, TF1 Séries Films and LCI), according to the free and pay-TV group on 02/09/2022. The channels are no longer accessible via Canal+ as of 02/09/2022.

"As part of the renewal of the Canal+ group's contract for the distribution of its channels, the TF1 group has expressed its desire to thoroughly review its commercial requirements from 31/08/2022. The TF1 group, on the strength of its dominant position, demands in particular the provision of a very substantial payment for its free DTT channels. Faced with these unfounded and unreasonable demands for channels that are accessible free of charge to all and must remain so, the Canal+ group, a long-standing partner of the TF1 group, is forced to give up broadcasting these channels in mainland France," explained the group.

"Aware of the importance of the 2022 World Cup for its subscribers and strengthened by its partnership with beIN Sports France, which holds the full rights to the competition, the Canal…