Source: REUTERS/Abdul Saboor
[Saba Sports News] According to French media reports, the broadcaster DAZN is facing a survival test for its Ligue 1 broadcasting rights, with the target of 1.5 million subscribers being a critical indicator. Reports suggest that December 1, 2025, will be a decisive moment; if DAZN fails to reach the 1.5 million subscriber goal, either Ligue 1 or DAZN may terminate the five-year broadcasting contract worth 2 billion euros. Currently, DAZN has only about 500,000 subscribers, which is far from the target. To attract users, DAZN has continuously adjusted its subscription pricing strategy, dropping from an initial 29.99 euros per month to 19.99 euros, and recently introducing a promotional price of 14.99 euros. However, the serious issue of piracy has significantly impacted the platform’s development, with surveys indicating that about 37% of viewers are watching Ligue 1 matches through illegal means this season, including 27% of those pirate viewers who started this summer. In terms of content production, DAZN has also faced criticism. Some users have expressed dissatisfaction with excessive advertising and the use of a single commentator for smaller matches. It is reported that Ligue 1 has formed a strategic advisory committee, comprising senior executives from clubs such as Nice, Lens, Marseille, Saint-Etienne, and Paris Saint-Germain, to prepare for a potential Plan B.