TF1 will end Téléfoot in its current form at the start of next season, replacing it with a Sunday morning multisport show. This decision marks a significant shift in the network’s programming strategy aimed at refreshing its schedule and appealing to younger viewers.
Téléfoot, which launched in September 1977, has been a staple of French sports broadcasting for decades. The final edition of this season is scheduled for 14 June, closing a chapter on a program that has averaged around 800,000 viewers, with a notable audience of 679,000 on Sunday 22 March.
Despite the discontinuation of the traditional format, the Téléfoot brand will continue to exist digitally on TF1+, although the specifics of its new format are yet to be defined. TF1+ has seen substantial growth since its launch in January 2024, now boasting 38 million monthly users.
In a strategic move, TF1 aims to terminate its Ligue 1 clip deal, which is valued at one million euros per year, by utilizing a break clause after two seasons. The new Sunday show is expected to leverage the right to news, allowing coverage of competitions for up to 90 seconds without incurring additional rights fees.
TF1’s programming focus will shift towards rugby and basketball, with plans to cover significant events such as the Nations Championship in 2026 and 2028, as well as nine matches from the 2026 Six Nations tournament. However, TF1 did not secure broadcasting rights for the 2026 and 2030 World Cups, although it retains rights for France matches outside of World Cups until 2028 and the next Euro.
This shake-up reflects TF1’s efforts to adapt to changing viewer habits and enhance its appeal in a competitive media landscape.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact format and content of the new Sunday morning show, as further developments are anticipated in the coming months.
