Canal+ makes the Europa League free via SPORT+
Canal+ launches today SPORT+, a free digital platform that offers, among other things, live streaming of the Europa League, with no subscription required. According to Maxime Saada, president of Canal+, the service, accessible via the CANAL+ app or the canalplus.com website, aims to provide the group's expertise to all sports fans.
In the absence of Ligue 1 and while awaiting a possible tender for the TV rights of the French championship, Maxime Saada, president of Canal+, decided to launch this brand‑new product. SPORT+ aims to be an innovative answer for sports fans, offering free access to premium content.
The channel is now available for free on the canalplus.com website, the only condition being that you have a user account. This ease of access allows subscribers as well as casual enthusiasts to connect without additional fees.
A free and comprehensive offering
Canal+ promises to cover nine major competitions, including the Champions League, the Europa League, the Conference League, the Premier League, the Arkema Top 14, Formula 1, MotoGP, the Top 14 and Pro D2. Each broadcast will be accompanied by exclusive footage, highlights and short formats, reflecting the group's editorial expertise.
Canal+ launches free Sport+ with multiplex Ligue and Formula 1 Grand Prix
For the big launch, Canal+ selected the Rennes‑OFI Crete match, partially broadcast on mobile with vertical formats. This highlight underscores the group's intention to attract mobile users while offering high‑level sport.
A rich and mobile programme
The same day, the Singapore Grand Prix will be offered on SPORT+, with coverage starting at 12:55 pm (French time) and the race start at 2 pm. This coverage strengthens the service's diversified offering.
The upcoming European week looks packed: RC Lens will face Sporting on Tuesday at 6:45 pm, followed by Arsenal versus LOSC at 9 pm live from the Emirates Stadium. PSG will meet Manchester City in the Champions League on Wednesday, while on Thursday evening the Europa League will see OFI Crete host Stade Rennais at 9 pm. Finally, Lyon will challenge Crystal Palace at 6:45 pm and Marseille will take on Olympiakos at 9 pm, two matches that Canal+ could offer for free to supporters.
Canal+ eager to relaunch Ligue 1 TV rights from 2027
This strategy shows that Canal+ is betting on free access to retain fans and broaden its audience, while waiting to position itself for the future TV rights of Ligue 1. The group hopes to strengthen its digital presence and attract new users to SPORT+.