France Ligue 1 Predictions & Betting Tips

What Makes Ligue 1 Betting Unique?

The French top flight is traditionally dominated by juggernauts Paris St. Germain, with their various rivals taking turns in launching title bids from season to season - as a result, many fixtures across the season have lopsided odds, forcing bettors to target more niche markets, such as over/under goals and margin of victory.

However, it is a league which is unpredictable - top four sides such as Marseille, Monaco or Lille can play superbly one week, but totally drop their level the next, leaving fans unsure how each approaching weekend will unfold.

The league also boasts a relatively low scoring trend - mid-table and relegation-threatened sides often opt to shut up shop for much of the season instead of attempting to fight fire with fire, meaning goals are less frequent at both ends. This brings betting markets such as under 2.5 goals or correct score (1-0 or 1-1) into play.

How does the Ligue 1 Work?

Very similar in layout to the Premier League, but there are 18 competing teams instead of the usual 20. The bottom two are relegated to the second division, with third from bottom entering a play-off with a qualified team from the division below as a chance to save their top flight status. The top seven teams compete for European football. The top three claim Champions League football proper, while fourth enters the tournament in the play-off rounds. Fifth and sixth claim Europa League, while seventh, and occasionally eighth depending on the Coupe de France winner earn themselves a spot in the Conference League.

When Is Each Stage of Ligue 1?

Ligue 1 takes place over 34 regular season gameweeks, with the season starting in August and ending in May. The only interruptions to the league's progress come in September, October, November and March, when players go away for the international break.

Most games take place on weekends, but fixtures are sporadically played in mid-week across the season, with Wednesday and Thursday hosting a number of games around the Christmas period.

Where to Watch Ligue 1 Football Live?

In the UK, Ligue 1 football is most readily available on TNT Sports and Discovery +. Both broadcasters charge £30.99 per month, although Discovery + boasts content outside of sports, making it a better value deal.

Who Has Won the Ligue 1 Most Often?

PSG have won Ligue 1 more than any other side, although their trophy haul is less than many would expect, with 13 league titles to their name. Champions last season, PSG finished 19 points clear of second placed Marseille, who themselves have the second most titles to their name with 10, alongside St Etienne on the same number.