French Broadcaster TF1 To Sell Part Of Rights To The 2015 Rugby World Cup

Persuaded by the "economic success of the sale of part of the rights" to the 2014 World Cup to beIN Sports, French TV broadcaster TF1 is "going to do the same thing for the 2015 Rugby World Cup," according to RUGBY 365. The TV channel has decided to sell 29 of the 48 matches "in order to alleviate the costs of its investments." Specifically, TF1 would like to "sell 27 matches exclusively, two jointly broadcast matches, as well as a TV program dedicated to the event," which will take place Sept. 18-Oct. 31 in England. The France XV matches will not be affected by this sale since TF1 will keep the 19 remaining games exclusive, including the opening match, semifinals, and the final. Canal+ and beIN Sports have submitted bids to TF1, which are currently under review. Already "at war" for the acquisition of the rights to Top 14 rugby, beIN Sports is "apparently not finished competing for access to rugby" (RUGBY 365, 11/11).