Only weeks remain before the Coupe de France kicks off, yet the flagship French Cup still lacks a free‑to‑air broadcaster. France Télévisions, the historic partner, grapples with tight budgets, but Philippe Diallo stays optimistic.
Who will bring the Cup to free television? The rights market in France is in flux. For 2026‑27, pay‑TV carrier beIN Sports holds the paid package, while the FFF continues to hunt a free‑to‑air partner, hoping to extend its tie‑up with France Télévisions despite the broadcaster’s fiscal constraints.
Diallo told reporters on Thursday that the situation is both straightforward and tangled. He noted the FFF has already sold part of the package under favourable terms and is now negotiating with its long‑standing partner, France Télévisions, to seal the free‑to‑air portion. ‘France TV wants to keep the rights,’ he said, adding that internal budget talks have slowed progress.
Several broadcasters have expressed interest.
He explained that France TV needs clarity on its budget envelope before committing. Without that, the rights would have been sold long ago, he warned. Now the tournament’s later rounds are approaching, so a swift resolution is essential.
Diallo said several broadcasters have approached the federation, underscoring the Cup’s popularity, comparable to the Tour de France. ‘My wish is to continue the partnership with France TV,’ he affirmed. For my money, preserving that link is crucial for French football fans.