The End of an Era: Téléfoot Moves Online, Signaling a Shift in French Football Broadcasting
Téléfoot, the iconic French football program, is leaving traditional television. After nearly 50 years on TF1, the demonstrate will transition to the TF1+ digital platform. This move, reported by Paris Match, isn’t a surprise given the program’s declining viewership and reflects a broader strategic shift within the TF1 Group.
A Legacy of French Football
Launched in 1977 by Pierre Cangioni, Téléfoot became a Sunday morning staple for French football fans. For generations, it provided summaries, debates, and analysis of the beautiful game. The show has weathered changes in presenters, broadcasting rights, and the media landscape, but its audience has steadily diminished.
The 2010s and 2020s saw Bixente Lizarazu and Grégoire Margotton become familiar faces on the program, solidifying its presence on TF1’s weekend schedule. Lizarazu joined TF1 in 2009, replacing Jean-Michel Larqué in 2010 and becoming a prominent voice in French football commentary.
Declining Viewership and the Rise of Digital Consumption
The numbers tell a clear story. Téléfoot’s viewership has fallen from over 4 million in the 2000s to around 2 million in the 2010s, and now hovers around 800,000 viewers with a share of less than 15% as of September 2025. This decline coincides with the increasing popularity of instant football updates via social media and digital platforms.
TF1’s decision to move Téléfoot to TF1+ is a direct response to these changing consumption habits. The group plans to “eventionalize” the program’s 50th anniversary in 2027, suggesting a continued commitment to the brand, albeit in a different format.
The Future of Sports Broadcasting in France
This shift isn’t isolated. TF1 has also relinquished the rights to the next two FIFA World Cups, choosing instead to focus its investments on rugby. This signals a broader trend: broadcasters are reassessing their sports rights portfolios and prioritizing profitability in a fragmented media landscape.
From Linear TV to Digital Platforms
The move of Téléfoot to TF1+ exemplifies the ongoing transition from linear television to digital platforms. This trend is seen globally, with streaming services increasingly vying for sports rights. For example, in the US, streaming services like Peacock and Paramount+ have secured exclusive rights to NFL games, driving subscriptions and engagement.
This transition presents both opportunities and challenges. Digital platforms offer greater flexibility in content delivery, personalization, and data analytics. However, they also face increased competition and the need to build sustainable subscription models.
The Rise of Multisport Formats
TF1’s plan to replace Téléfoot with a new multisport format – encompassing football, automobile racing, rugby, and basketball – reflects a desire to broaden its appeal and reduce reliance on expensive football rights. This approach aims to leverage the right to information, potentially lowering costs associated with premium broadcasting licenses.
This strategy mirrors similar moves by other broadcasters. For instance, ESPN in the US has expanded its coverage beyond core sports like football and basketball to include esports and other niche athletic events.
What This Means for Lizarazu and Margotton
While the end of the linear broadcast marks the end of a chapter for Bixente Lizarazu and Grégoire Margotton on TF1’s flagship Sunday morning slot, it also opens new avenues for them on the TF1+ platform. Their expertise will continue to be available to viewers, albeit through a different medium.
FAQ
Q: Why is Téléfoot moving to TF1+?
A: Declining viewership and a strategic shift by TF1 to focus on digital platforms are the primary reasons.
Q: What will replace Téléfoot on TF1 on Sunday mornings?
A: A new multisport format covering football, automobile racing, rugby, and basketball.
Q: Will Bixente Lizarazu and Grégoire Margotton still be involved?
A: Yes, they will continue to contribute on the TF1+ platform.
Q: Is this part of a larger trend in sports broadcasting?
A: Yes, it reflects a global shift towards digital platforms and a reassessment of sports rights portfolios by broadcasters.
Did you realize? Téléfoot was first launched in 1977, making it one of the longest-running sports programs in French television history.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on TF1+ for exclusive content and behind-the-scenes access to French football and other sports.
What are your thoughts on the future of sports broadcasting? Share your opinions in the comments below!
