In a significant shift in the French broadcasting landscape, the M6 group has reportedly outbid TF1 to secure the free-to-air rights to broadcast the 2026 football World Cup in France. The tournament is set to take place across Mexico, USA, and Canada. This acquisition marks a notable evolution for Nicolas de Tavernost’s group which hasn't aired any World Cup match since 2006.
According to reports, M6 emerged victorious in FIFA's call for bids by offering more than €130 million - an amount that surpasses what was paid for the rights to broadcast the 2022 World Cup held in Qatar.
In contrast, during the 2022 tournament, TF1 had broadcasted only 28 of the best matches out of a total of 64 games played throughout France. Despite this limited coverage, these broadcasts generated seven of France’s highest audience ratings for that year. Additionally, beIN Sports - a pay-TV channel - also retransmitted coverage from this global event.
TF1 remains in the running with a co-licensing deal looming with M6
Despite losing out on these free-to-air rights for now, TF1 still holds exclusive broadcasting privileges when it comes to matches involving Les Bleus – France's national team – until as far as 2028. This means they will have exclusive access to air Les Bleus' performances across various competitions over this period.
As far as coverage of the upcoming 2026 World Cup is concerned though, there are still possibilities open with regards co-licence deals being struck between broadcasters. This development could potentially herald a new era in football broadcasting within France; one where competition between networks intensifies, and the audience is offered a wider range of viewing options.
As M6 takes on this new challenge, sports fans and sports betting enthusiasts alike will be eagerly anticipating the 2026 World Cup.
While TF1 may have lost out on these rights for now, they still hold significant broadcasting privileges. Meanwhile, M6's acquisition could potentially reshape the French football broadcasting landscape in the years to come.
