FIF and Ivorian clubs locked in standoff over Ligue 1 Lonaci broadcast rights

For several weeks, Ivorian Ligue 1 has been the setting for an unexpected row, every bit as heated as the matches on the pitch. It pits the Ivorian Football Federation (FIF) against the local clubs over the rights to film and broadcast fixtures. The dispute points to more complex issues around television rights in a football scene striving to professionalise.

Strict ban on filming Ligue 1 Lonaci

On 5 November 2024, the FIF sent a circular to clubs categorically banning them from filming matches in the domestic leagues, including for their own internal archives. The decision was based on an exclusivity contract signed with Canal+ International, giving the media giant exclusive rights to film and broadcast Ligue 1 Lonaci matches.

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While the partnership appears aimed at giving the Ivorian league greater exposure, the restriction placed on clubs quickly caused an outcry. Technical staff in particular denounced it as a hindrance to their analysis work. "This decision has a very bad impact. We can no longer analyse matches to identify problems in our play and work on them," protested Ousou Lumor Israël, coach of Mouna FC.

A first easing of the ban

Faced with mounting criticism, the FIF has taken a softer line in recent days. With no official announcement as yet, clubs have been allowed to film their matches, but only for technical or archiving purposes. Sport-Ivoire reports, for example, that in matchday 11 of the Ligue 1 Lonaci, the media staff of SOL FC and ASEC Mimosas were able to capture footage of their match at the Stade Municipal de Bingerville. It is a first step towards calming things down.

However, the ban on broadcasting this footage, whether live or delayed, on the clubs' communication platforms remains in force. The FIF reiterates that the broadcast rights belong exclusively to Canal+, a key clause of the partnership signed with the operator.

Crisis of confidence between clubs and Federation

While this easing meets some of the clubs' needs, it does not end the tension. Several club presidents are now demanding clarification on the terms of the contract with the pay-TV channel. "We understand the importance of a partnership to develop the league, but the FIF needs to involve us more. We need to know how this contract also serves the clubs' interests," said an official at a Ligue 1 club, who spoke on condition of anonymity.

For many clubs, Canal+'s monopoly on match footage also raises questions about the visibility of teams. By stopping clubs from sharing clips or highlights on their social media, the FIF limits their ability to attract sponsors and supporters, at a time when digital communication has become crucial.

Financial and strategic stakes

This standoff highlights the financial challenges facing Ivorian clubs, who already struggle to balance their books. While the Canal+ partnership should in theory bring revenue into the league, the clubs complain of a lack of transparency over how the proceeds are distributed, since they have no knowledge of the nature and details of the contract that was signed.

It also illustrates a wider problem: the difficulty African federations have in striking a balance between seeking income through lucrative partnerships and the sustainable development of local clubs.

With the situation still tense, observers hope the FIF and the Ligue 1 Lonaci clubs will find a solution that satisfies all parties. The professionalisation of Ivorian football necessarily depends on solid partnerships, but also on close collaboration between the Federation and the clubs.

In the meantime, on and off the pitch, the Ligue 1 continues to stir passions. But for that fervour to be fully harnessed, tensions will need to be eased and the issues around broadcast rights clarified.

Malick BAMBA