TV rights crisis: French football has gone from a TV dependency to a UEFA dependency, according to a sports economist

After being crowned French champions, PSG is gearing up to face Arsenal in the Champions League final on May 30th in Budapest. Behind this deceptive facade lies a French league whose funding is drying up. “The French model is 10 to 15 years behind its neighbors,” analyzes Vincent Chaudel, founder of the Sports Business Observatory.

Published on May 14, 2026, at 14:34 and updated at 14:36, this article sheds light on the financial crisis facing French football, with clubs like PSG dominating the scene. The article discusses the significant imbalance between PSG, one of Europe’s richest clubs, and its rivals like Arsenal.

PSG clinched their twelfth French title in 14 years on May 13th, defeating RC Lens 2-0 at Bollaert Stadium. However, discontent among supporters is growing, evident in banners criticizing the influence of PSG and Qatar in French football.

The article delves into the financial struggles of French clubs, heavily reliant on TV rights, which have decreased in recent years. Vincent Chaudel emphasizes the need for clubs to focus on player development, transfers, and ticket sales to reduce dependence on TV rights, a model that other European leagues have already adopted.

Looking to the future, Chaudel believes that the French market must find a balance with key players like Canal+ while exploring alternative revenue streams. The article ends on a hopeful note, suggesting that with time, the French league can regain financial strength and competitiveness.