Disney picks up Ligue 1 rights in Brazil ahead of Star+ launch

While Ligue 1’s domestic rights continue to be embroiled in controversy, the LFP has continued to hand out international rights with the latest going to Disney in Brazil.

Disney will be the exclusive broadcaster of the league in the country, with Brazilian superstar Neymar being a key player for cash-rich Paris Saint Germain. The company will broadcast matches on ESPN and Fox Sports, along with its Star+ streamer which is set to launch on August 31.

While Star has launched as a hub within Disney+ in Europe, the service is being offered as a standalone product in markets including Latin America. The service in the region will also be boosted by a range of sports rights including the English Premier League, Spain’s LaLiga, the UEFA Europa League and non-exclusive rights to the Copa America. It has also been speculated that Disney could als acquire the as-yet unassigned rights to Italy’s Serie A.

The rights to Ligue 1 in Brazil had previously been won by DAZN in a three-year deal running from 2018-21, but the deal was terminated as a part of the London-based sports streamer’s restructuring.