LFP Uses Reserve Funds to Cover DAZN's Missed Payment to Ligue 1 Clubs

The French football league advances €35 million to clubs after DAZN fails to fulfill its February payment, with a court ruling expected later this month.

The Ligue de Football Professionnel (LFP) has activated its reserve fund to advance €35 million to Ligue 1 clubs after DAZN, the main broadcaster, refused to make a scheduled payment.
The dispute stems from DAZN's claim that inadequate anti-piracy measures have affected its ability to attract subscribers, with the platform reporting fewer than 500,000 subscribers in France.
The LFP has taken legal action against DAZN, with the Tribunal of Economic Activities in Paris set to issue a ruling on February 28 regarding the payment dispute.
The decision to use reserve funds was unanimously approved by the LFP board and supported by CVC Capital Partners, ensuring clubs receive the funds this week to address cash flow needs.
This financial conflict follows previous broadcasting crises in French football, raising concerns about the long-term viability of the league's media rights strategy.