The verdict is in, Xavier Niel has lost the battle. In a press release, Arcom announced that M6 will keep its frequencies on DTT from May 6th. The French businessman’s plan to replace the historic channel will therefore not take place, at least for the moment.
It was a small clap of thunder on the PAF that Xavier Niel had launched at the end of January, by formalizing his intention to oust M6 from DTT to replace it with his own channel. At that time, Arcom had launched a call for candidates to take over the channel’s frequencies, a first since 1987. Although the latter had obviously presented itself, an unexpected competitor had opposed it: the Six company.
A few days later, the billionaire revealed his project in more depth. In fact, the latter intended to create a channel intended for the general public, centered above all on information and entertainment, while reducing the advertising load and ensuring the independence of the editorial staff. A very nice idea, but which ultimately did not seduce the Arcom.
Xavier Niel’s TV channel project will not take place
This Wednesday, February 22, the telecoms policeman delivered his verdict. On May 6, M6 will be able to continue broadcasting its content on DTT. Arcom further states that it plans to conduct “to initiate discussions with the selected candidates in order to conclude an agreement intended to define the obligations and commitments of each of the two services”.
On the same subject: Canal+ will continue to broadcast M6 channels, failing to renew its contract with TF1
SIX probably suffered from his lack of preparation. Indeed, Xavier had admitted that his company could not have started broadcasting before September 19, 2023, effectively leaving the frequencies concerned vacant. For its part, M6 indicated “consider with serenity the continuation of the broadcasting of its programs in the service of the public in strict compliance with its obligations”.
Xavier, meanwhile, reacted with humor to this refusal from Arcom. On Twitter, the billionaire posted a meme expressing all his disappointment, not without a touch of irony.