France cracks down on illegal IPTV with fines for sports piracy
French authorities have fined 19 viewers and two suppliers for using illegal IPTV services to stream sports content. The penalties, issued in Arras, Pas-de-Calais, mark a crackdown on unauthorised access to live matches. The move follows growing concerns over financial losses in French football due to piracy.
The fines ranged between €300 and €400 for individual viewers. These penalties were imposed under existing laws, with the maximum possible fine currently set at €7,500. However, a new bill proposes raising this to €375,000 for those caught using illegal streams.
Authorities traced the offenders using IP addresses and personal details linked to their IPTV setups. The Ligue de Football Professionnel (LFP) supported the action, aiming to cut demand for pirated broadcasts. French football clubs reportedly lose around €400 million annually to illegal streaming, weakening their competitiveness in European tournaments. IPTV boxes, often used to bypass paid subscriptions, allow access to live sports and international channels without proper licensing. While around 8 million French households use such devices, not all are involved in illegal activity. The LFP has also announced plans for a new subscription service in the 2026-2027 season, offering all Ligue 1 matches for €19.99 per month.
The fines serve as a warning to viewers and suppliers of illegal sports streams. With stricter penalties on the horizon, authorities aim to reduce piracy's impact on French football. The LFP's upcoming subscription service may provide a legal alternative for fans seeking affordable access to matches.
