DAZN Faces Backlash Over Ligue 1 Broadcast Rights Amid Subscription Controversy
The launch of Ligue 1 this Friday has been overshadowed by a significant backlash against the new main broadcaster, DAZN. The hashtag #BoycottDAZN has surged on social media, particularly on X (formerly Twitter), where it reached the top trends in France with over 12,000 messages. Many fans express outrage over the perceived high subscription costs and the quality of the product. One Parisian executive noted, "I find it so outrageous... I will manage to find links on Telegram if I don’t succeed," highlighting the frustration among supporters who feel that the league's value has diminished.
As DAZN embarks on its mission to broadcast Ligue 1 for the next five seasons, the platform is set to air 8 out of 9 matches live each matchday. Yet, the financial commitment of 400 million euros annually for these rights has left many fans questioning the value they are receiving. Critics argue that the quality of Ligue 1 has deteriorated, leading to calls for a boycott of the service.
Subscription Plans and Innovative Features
DAZN has introduced various subscription plans to cater to different viewer preferences. The DAZN Unlimited plan, priced at 29.99 euros per month with a 12-month commitment, grants access to all Ligue 1 matches, along with other sports like MMA and boxing. Alternatively, the Super Sports plan offers a more economical option at 14.99 euros per month, allowing viewers to watch one Ligue 1 match per day on Sundays.
To enhance the viewing experience, DAZN has partnered with Free to launch the Free FOOT application, which will provide free, almost live highlights of Ligue 1 matches. This initiative aims to make it easier for fans to follow the league, regardless of their subscription status. The collaboration reflects DAZN's commitment to improving accessibility and engagement with the sport, despite the ongoing criticism.
As the new season kicks off, it remains to be seen how DAZN will navigate the backlash while delivering quality content to its subscribers.
- DAZN's acquisition of Ligue 1 broadcasting rights is part of a broader strategy to expand its presence in European sports. The platform aims to provide a comprehensive viewing experience, integrating features such as match statistics and fan engagement tools. This approach is designed to attract a diverse audience, including casual viewers and dedicated fans alike. The Free FOOT application is a notable addition, allowing fans to access highlights without a subscription, which could potentially mitigate some backlash against the platform. By offering free content, DAZN hopes to build a loyal user base that may convert to paid subscriptions in the future. Despite these efforts, the initial reception has been challenging, with many fans expressing skepticism about the value of the service. DAZN will need to address these concerns effectively to secure its position as a leading broadcaster in the competitive landscape of sports media.
