Belgian football faces revenue risks amid broadcasting disputes

Belgian professional football faces potential financial and structural challenges following disputes over broadcasting rights. Media expert Pierre Maes warns that the value of television rights for the Jupiler Pro League could drop from the current estimated €72–€74 million per year to less than €40 million per season by 2030.

This projected decline follows a period of uncertainty caused by a distribution conflict between DAZN and telecom operators. During this time, viewership on traditional television channels in French-speaking markets reportedly fell by nearly 50 percent, though figures including streaming services suggest a more moderate decline of 20 to 25 percent. Experts note that reclaiming lost audiences is significantly more difficult than losing them.

On the pitch, RSC Anderlecht has faced internal scrutiny regarding player communication. Following a last-minute winning goal against Cercle Brugge, player Adriano Bertaccini was reportedly prohibited from speaking to the media, highlighting tensions between club management and player expression.