TF1 Group has reacted angrily to the decision by Canal+ Group to cease the retransmission of its channels.
In a statement, TF1 said it “ strongly deplores” last Thursday’s removal of TF1, TMC, TFX, TF1 Séries Films and LCI.
“While the TF1 group is distributed by all distributors Free, SFR, Bouygues Telecom, Orange, Molotov and Salto, Canal + did not wish to conclude a new distribution agreement for the channels and services of the TF1 group despite weeks of discussions and negotiations, choosing to deprive its subscribers of the channels and services they pay for in their subscription.”
Canal countered by issuing a weekend statement saying TF1 was demanding “very large sums” for what are seen as free channels. “The contract for the distribution of TF1 channels by Canal + expired on 31 August 2022. After this deadline, which TF1 has repeatedly reminded us of, Canal + was no longer authorised to distribute them in mainland France and was therefore unfortunately forced to stop broadcasting them in view of the sums demanded by TF1.”
TF1 says it remains “open to discussions” so not as to further deprive viewers. In return Canal says it can restore the channels within 24 hours, providing it doesn’t need to pay carriage fees.
