Dazn still far from the account!

Dazn crossed a symbolic threshold by reaching the 500,000 subscribers' mark. A figure that might seem encouraging, but which is still very far from the initial expectations. When he obtained the diffusion rights of Ligue 1, the British diffuser was targeting 1.5 million subscribers by December 2025. A bar which, today, seems almost unattainable.

Behind the scenes, the platform tries to reassure. According to RMC Sport, this progression is notably due to the launch of several attractive offers, such as that at 69 euros for the entire second part of the season. But despite this increase, the concern grows among French football leaders. Because if Dazn fails to achieve the objective set, an output clause would allow the LFP to end the distribution contract from 2025.

Dazn, serial hiccups and a disputed model

In addition to the disappointing figures, Dazn also has to face many criticisms. Since the start of the season, the technical hiccups have multiplied. Bugs during retransmissions, comments sometimes absent or approximate, and editorial choices that divide subscribers. The abolition of summaries of matches on social networks has also aroused misunderstanding, depriving Ligue 1 from an essential showcase to attract new spectators.

The tariff strategy of the diffuser also raises questions. After a launch at 29.99 euros per month, followed by a drop to 19.99 euros, Dazn recently introduced an offer at 14.99 euros. An instability which annoys certain subscribers and which testifies to the difficulties in retaining a clientele ready to pay to follow the French championship.

High hacking and suspicious clubs

Another major problem for Dazn: hacking. According to an IPSOS study, 37 % of Ligue 1 spectators watch the matches in an illegal way. An alarming figure, which shows that fans are reluctant to pay for a service they deem unsatisfactory. Worse still, 27 % of pirates have started to get around the diffusion rights since this summer, a sign that Dazn's arrival has not convinced.

On the club side, distrust grows. While some presidents continue to display facade support for the diffuser, the reality is more contrasted. The LFP has set up a strategic committee to anticipate a possible break with Dazn, proof that uncertainty hangs over the future of this collaboration.

A Ligue 1 in danger?

If Dazn came to withdraw prematurely, Ligue 1 would be found in a perilous situation. To date, no other diffuser seems ready to invest the amounts hoped for by the LFP. Canal+, who had refused to submit an offer during the tender, return to the race? Some doubt it. The idea of ​​a 100 % Ligue 1 channel managed by the LFP resurfaces, but the project is complex and risky financially.

Faced with these uncertainties, Dazn tries as best they can to stay afloat. But the road is still long, and time is running out. If no miracle solution is found quickly, Ligue 1 may well end up in a television crisis which it would find it difficult to get up.