France A
The broadcasting rights for the new season were sold for 500 million euros, well below expectations. DAZN paid 400 million euros to broadcast eight matches per round, while BeIN paid 100 million euros to broadcast one highlights match per round. As a result of the drop in revenues, the leadership of the Ligue Française de Football Professionnelle (LFP) is reviewing all potential savings projects, one of which involves the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system.
VAR becomes available in 2023 with a new contract with Hawk-Eye, which operates in Ligue 1. Taking advantage of the break between matches, the company has installed its system at Ligue 2 stadiums as well. Over the past six months, Ligue 2 referees have received special training and been certified by FIFA to use the video technology. However, despite all the preparations, the high cost of VAR (€7.7 million in Ligue 1) has forced the league to reconsider its plans in the current economic climate.
Reims FC president Jean-Pierre Cayotte mentioned the possibility in a July 8 interview with L'Equipe. When asked what French soccer could save, Cayotte said, "VAR is very costly. Should we continue to use it?" This statement shows his clear view on cutting spending on VAR.
With clubs in both Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 facing significant financial pressures in the current economic climate, the LFP must find a balance between ensuring the integrity of the game and controlling costs. Although the VAR system provides more fairness, its high cost makes this technology an important consideration in cutting expenses under economic pressure.
Although no final decision has been made, all Ligue 2 club presidents are preparing for possible cuts in VAR use. If the LFP decides to cut back on VAR spending, it will have a profound effect on the Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 competitions. Clubs and fans will be watching the progress of this decision closely.
With Ligue 1 broadcast rights revenues falling in the new season, the LFP is facing difficult financial decisions. Whether or not to continue using the VAR system will be a key issue for the LFP to address in the coming months. Regardless of the final decision, the LFP will need to find a reasonable balance between ensuring the fairness of the game and controlling operating costs.
