French cablenet SFR says nothing has changed after French commercial network TF1 pulled its MYTF1 catch-up services.
In a statement SFR claimed the first thing it knew of the action was when news appeared in the press. “SFR takes note and is surprised that TF1 has chosen not to wait for the pending appeals, SFR before the CSA and Orange before the Commercial Court.” It said the lack of communication constituted a considerable prejudice against which it intended to seek all possible remedies.
TF1 has been seeking retransmission fees for the carriage of its services that have historically been provided free to operators. SFR points to the fact that TF1 holds more than 40 per cent of the French market and holds a terrestrial broadcast licence.
Negotiations began it July 2016 over a new offer called TF1 Premium. It would include the existing free-to-air channels, the MYTF1 catch-up service and new services such as start over and enriched catch up.
Negotiations broke off in April 2017 with the contract expiring July 29, having been extended from December last year.
SFR customers can still access My TF1 through computer, tablet, mobile and OTT on TV.
