Nasser al-Khelaïfi could be barred from French football governance under new professional sport law | OneFootball

Article 8 of France’s professional sport law seeks to curb conflicts of interest and could force Nasser al-Khelaïfi to vacate seats in French football’s decision-making bodies. L'Équipe reports that it targets overlaps between club bosses and broadcasters.

The bill passed the National Assembly on 29 June and the joint committee approved the final text on Wednesday.

Proponents hailed compromises, while opponents were scathing in private chats, including Ligue president Vincent Labrune.

Other flashpoints include cutting the pros’ weight at the federation’s electoral assembly from 33 to 25 percent and a one to three split of TV rights. Article 8 zeroes in on conflicts when broadcasters and domestic rights are decided.

Al-Khelaïfi is PSG president and beIN Media Group chief, and sits on the LFP board. He has been accused of influencing choices on a vital revenue stream, with beIN Sports France broadcasting Ligue 2.

Senators pushed the joint committee to restore a tougher original draft, making senior league company roles incompatible with interests or posts in audiovisual firms, unless the broadcaster is controlled by the league entity.

As it stands, the law would bar al-Khelaïfi from French football governance bodies. His circle has played down the clause, saying he is often consulted and recuses himself for votes.

One seasoned insider suggested he resign from beIN Media Group, adding he could still steer it via a trusted associate, though whether that would preserve his seats remains unclear.

Source: L'Équipe