The Paris court has imposed a fine on Canal+ for freely broadcasting movies during the Covid-19 pandemic, a move that significantly affected its rival, TF1.
Canal+ Free Broadcasting During Early Pandemic Days
During the initial phase of the pandemic, Canal+ decided to offer its channels without any charge for a duration of 15 days in April 2020. This decision led to a situation where a number of films, for which TF1 secured the broadcasting rights, were available for the public to watch freely.
Canal+’s Legal Misstep
As per the law, Canal+ was not authorized to take such an action. As a result, Canal+ found itself in the sights of TF1. The media giant accused Canal+ of engaging in “counterfeiting” and “unfair competition”, subsequently leading to legal action.
Canal+ Fined 1.5 Million Euros
The court ordered Canal+ to pay a fine of 1.5 million euros. The fine included 680,000 euros for broadcasting “Avengers: Endgame”, 740,000 euros for “All Inclusive” and “Jusqu’ici tout va bien” and 100,000 euros in moral damages.
TF1’s Initial Demands
It’s worth noting that TF1’s initial damage claims amounted up to 12 million euros.
Canal+ Reacts to the Judgment
Following the judgment, Canal+ is mulling over the possibility of an appeal.