TF1 has opened a new legal front in its long-running dispute with Canal Plus, after failing to reach a resolution over new carriage terms for its TV channels and related replay/premium services, according to information gathered by Les Echos. Canal Plus faces content piracy charges for distributing the TV channels without TF1’s authorisation. The case, which will be heard by the regional court of Nanterre, is similar to the legal action brought by TF1 against Orange in February, over a dispute on the same grounds.

Like other industry partners, Canal Plus has been staunchly opposed to TF1’s demands for higher carriage fees. After protracted negotiations, TF1 came to an agreement on new distribution contracts with the country's main telecom operators, sealing the deals with Orange and Free in April. While the talks with Canal Plus have yet to advance, a resolution is still possible in the near future, according to an unnamed source familiar with the situation.