Ligue 1 2025/26 kicks off amid PSG’s historic Champions League triumph and Monaco’s promising preseason

Ligue 1 2025/26 officially kicked off on August 15 with a highly anticipated clash between Rennes and Olympique Marseille at Roazhon Park. This season arrives in the wake of an extraordinary milestone for French football: Paris Saint-Germain's resounding 5-0 success in the UEFA Champions League final on May 31, 2025, against Inter Milan at the Allianz Arena. PSG’s dominant European campaign ended with them lifting their first-ever Champions League trophy, signifying their continental ascendancy and adding immense prestige and financial rewards to the club. The victory secured over €148 million for PSG, cementing their status as the powerhouse of French football.

PSG’s Unstoppable Force

PSG’s triumph was highlighted by exceptional performances from stars like Désiré Doué, named man of the match and the first player ever to be decisive three times in a Champions League final. Their domestic dominance, underscored by an unbeaten Ligue 1 run till April 2025, makes them overwhelming favorites to retain the Ligue 1 title this season. The question remains if rivals Marseille and Monaco can disrupt their reign.

Monaco’s Preseason Promise

Meanwhile, AS Monaco has been quietly preparing with an encouraging preseason marked by five wins, two draws, and only one loss, scoring 18 goals and conceding 6. Notable new signings such as Bayern Munich’s central defender and Bayer Leverkusen’s goalkeeper Lukas Hradecky show ambition. The addition of Paul Pogba, Ansu Fati, and other reinforcements aims to empower coach Adi Hütter with tactical solidity to challenge PSG’s hegemony. Monaco's preseason also included a training camp at England’s St. George’s Park and contract extensions for promising talents like Mika Biereth, emphasizing their commitment to a sustained push for the title. Their opening Ligue 1 match against Le Havre at Stade Louis-II is a crucial step in this journey.

Marseille and the Title Race

Olympique Marseille, runners-up in 2024/25 and eager to finally topple PSG, also strengthened their squad and begin the season with high ambitions. The proven goal threat of Mason Greenwood, the pre-season standout, sets up a compelling goal-scoring battle with PSG’s Ousmane Dembele for the Golden Boot—adding extra spice to the title race. Marseille's performance in the opening fixtures will be closely watched as they seek to close a large gap left by PSG last season.

Broadcasting Changes and Fan Access

After a turbulent broadcasting episode with DAZN last year, Ligue 1 has revamped its rights strategy. The introduction of Ligue 1 +, launched by the LFP’s media branch, offers exclusive streaming of eight out of nine weekly matches, while BeIN Sports retains rights for the ninth match, albeit with a one-week delay on the streaming platform. This season’s improved pricing strategy aims to bring Ligue 1 content to a broader audience, including discounted rates for young fans under 26. Additionally, Toulouse FC fans can follow their team’s matches live, with commentary provided on local media, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the league across platforms.

Relegation Battles and Mid-Table Contests

Relegation battles promise to be intense with promoted clubs like Paris FC eager to make an impact backed by ambitious owners, while Lorient and Le Havre look to consolidate their top-flight status. Metz, losing key players, may face a tough challenge retaining their Ligue 1 place. Established mid-table teams like Lille, boosted by solid managerial leadership and quality signings, and Strasbourg, the season’s biggest spenders, add further intrigue to the league landscape.

Looking Ahead

As Ligue 1 resumes, optimism flares for fans across France. PSG sets the benchmark after their historic Champions League success, but both Monaco and Marseille have fortified their squads ambitiously. The evolving broadcast landscape aims to reconnect supporters with live football more conveniently and affordably. With the titles, European qualification spots, and relegation battles all razor-close, the 2025/26 Ligue 1 season promises exhilarating football and unforgettable moments.