Neymar Exit Adds to Ligue 1 Decline as DAZN Considers Withdrawal

Ligue 1 global appeal has dropped since Neymar, Messi, and Mbappé left PSG. DAZN, struggling with low subscriptions (500,000 instead of the 1.5 million needed), withheld a $38M payment over piracy concerns. With clubs resisting media access, DAZN may exit early, risking financial instability for teams reliant on TV revenue. A crucial €70M payment is due April 30.

As the post-Mbappe, Messi, and Neymar era unfolds, Ligue 1 is struggling to maintain its global appeal. The French league once thrived on the star power of these players, but their departures have exposed its reliance on individual talents rather than overall competition strength. This decline has affected broadcasting revenue, with DAZN, the primary domestic broadcaster, facing major setbacks.

DAZN secured Ligue 1 rights to boost French football's financial stability, but has encountered obstacles. Subscription numbers have fallen drastically, with only 500,000 subscribers instead of the projected 1.5 million needed to break even. Tensions escalated when DAZN withheld a $38 million payment in February due to Ligue 1’s weak anti-piracy measures. Although the payment was later made, negotiations with the league remain unresolved.

DAZN is now considering an early exit from its contract, even though an official exit clause can only be triggered in December 2025. If DAZN withdraws, Ligue 1 clubs could face financial turmoil as many depend on broadcasting revenue. The league's next test comes on April 30, when DAZN must make a €70 million payment. A missed or delayed payment could signal an impending crisis, leaving Ligue 1 without a major broadcaster sooner than expected.