Rodolphe Belmer, the head of TF1, has given a cautiously positive review of the network's new partnership with Netflix, highlighting a 30% increase in the audience of TF1+. This growth comes as traditional television faces challenges from digital platforms like YouTube, which have disrupted the free audiovisual market. Belmer criticized YouTube for what he called a "predatory" approach, arguing that the platform benefits from government subsidies while undercutting traditional broadcasters like TF1 and Netflix in the advertising market. He also called for changes to current advertising rules and a review of the 66% tax reduction granted to the National Center for Cinema (CNC), which funds French film production. Belmer expressed disappointment that Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu had not responded to a letter sent in early 2026, which raised concerns about the deteriorating advertising market. He argued that existing regulations, established in 1986, are outdated and do not reflect the current reality of linear television, which now relies heavily on advertising revenue rather than broadcast funding. Without updates to the legal and regulatory framework, Belmer warned, TF1 may be forced to accept a "principle of reality" — a phrase suggesting that the channel might have to make difficult decisions to survive. The TF1-Netflix partnership, launched in June 2026, allows Netflix subscribers to watch TF1+ with advertisements. This collaboration has been crucial for TF1, which saw a double-digit drop in advertising revenue in 2026. The partnership aims to attract viewers who have shifted away from traditional TV, with an estimated 14 million French households subscribed to Netflix. In return, Netflix hopes to use TF1's brand recognition to reach a different audience, particularly with the upcoming season of Star Academy, a popular French reality show. President Emmanuel Macron has urged YouTube to contribute to the financing of French creative content, a sector already supported by major broadcasters and streaming platforms like TF1, France Télévisions, M6, Netflix, HBO Max, and Prime Video. While Belmer remains optimistic about TF1's future, he warned that ongoing regulatory challenges could force the channel to reconsider its strategies and operations.