Nicolas Sarkozy was seen sitting with PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaïfi and LFP president Vincent Labrune at the Westfalenstadion in Dortmund on May 1st during PSG’s 1-0 loss to Borussia in the Champions League semi-final. Sarkozy’s presence at the game highlighted his role as a mediator behind the scenes in negotiations between BeIN Sports and Canal+ for the acquisition of Ligue 1 TV rights from 2024 to 2029. He is working to facilitate a deal between the two parties that would benefit French clubs financially.
Sarkozy’s influence in the negotiations is seen as significant by those involved, with some suggesting that his role as a mediator is more effective than current President Macron’s due to his close connections in all parties. While he may not have a direct lever in negotiations, Sarkozy’s role as a conciliator helps bridge the gap between BeIN Sports and Canal+. His close relationship with Vincent Bolloré, the major shareholder of Vivendi, adds to his influence in the matter. Sarkozy is also affiliated with Lagardère Group, which is owned by Vivendi.
Sarkozy’s connections extend to Qatar as well, with ties to Emir Tamim Ben Hamad Al Thani and Nasser Al-Khelaïfi, who is not only the president of PSG but also the head of BeIN Media, the company that owns BeIN Sports. Sarkozy’s involvement in the negotiations is seen as an attempt to create a favorable outcome for French clubs in terms of TV rights distribution. By bringing together BeIN Sports and Canal+, Sarkozy aims to ensure that both parties reach a satisfactory agreement that benefits all involved.
Sarkozy’s presence at the PSG game in Dortmund was seen as a symbolic display of his involvement in the negotiations for Ligue 1 TV rights. Despite not having a direct role in the negotiations, Sarkozy’s connections and influence in the business world contribute to his ability to act as a mediator between the parties involved. His close ties to key players in the negotiations give him a unique position to facilitate a deal that benefits all stakeholders, including French football clubs.
Sarkozy’s role in the negotiations for Ligue 1 TV rights reflects his ongoing involvement in the business world and his ability to leverage his connections to facilitate deals between major corporations. With his ties to key figures in the sports and media industries, Sarkozy plays a key role in mediating negotiations that have significant financial implications for French football clubs. His presence at the PSG game in Dortmund served as a visible reminder of his behind-the-scenes involvement in shaping the future of French football broadcasting rights.
