The deal is also part of Belmer’s strategy to transform the group’s AVOD platform, TF1+, into a global brand, with its African launch set for the end of the month.
French broadcaster TF1 has announced plans to expand its free ad-supported streaming service, TF1+, into 22 French-speaking African countries starting June 30, 2025. This strategic expansion follows the platform’s previous rollouts in Belgium, Luxembourg and Switzerland, marking a significant step in TF1’s ambition to become a dominant entertainment player across the French-speaking world.
Speaking to Variety, TF1 CEO Rodolphe Belmer said the goal is to position TF1+ as the leading entertainment platform in these new markets. The move places TF1 in direct competition with Canal+, which already has a strong presence in Francophone Africa and is currently extending its footprint into English-speaking markets through its acquisition of MultiChoice.
In addition to geographic expansion, TF1 is set to introduce a new micro-payment model for TF1+, aimed at diversifying its revenue streams beyond traditional linear and digital advertising. Inspired by mobile gaming economics, the system will allow viewers to choose between ad-supported and ad-free viewing options on a per-episode basis. This will launch in France on September 1. As Belmer explained, audiences will have the flexibility to watch flagship programmes such as Koh-Lanta either with commercials or without, depending on their preference.
TF1’s push for innovation also made headlines last week with the surprise announcement that Netflix subscribers in France will soon have access to live TF1 channels and on-demand content from TF1+ directly through the Netflix platform. Although Belmer declined to offer specific details on the partnership, he confirmed that the deal will help extend TF1’s reach within the advertising market.
With these moves, TF1 is signaling a clear intent to broaden its international footprint and adapt to evolving viewer preferences while tapping into new monetisation models and strategic partnerships.
