TV

Posted: Thurs., Jul. 23, 1998

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Cup goes to the tape

TF1 Video cashes in with soccer tape series

PARIS -- France's victory in the World Cup soccer finals looks like it could produce a multimillion-dollar payday for the country's leading private television network, TF1.

The tournament turned France into a nation of soccer enthusiasts, with pre-competition sales of new television sets and video recorders soaring. TF1 Video is preparing to launch a series of videocassettes devoted to the winning exploits of "Les Bleus," as the national soccer squad is known.

Early estimates are that the five-tape series could sell in excess of one million units by the end of the year, bringing in revenues of over 100 million francs ($16.6 million).

TF1 has exclusive video distribution of the event in France, and on Aug. 18 will launch its first cassette -- a three-hour tribute to the team that will include France's 3-0 victory over Brazil in the championship game. The final tape, devoted to silly moments of the competition, will be on sale in time for Christmas.

Smash video hits in France, such as comedy "Les Visiteurs," typically sell about 2 million units. TF1 Video insiders are now hoping that the newfound soccer enthusiasm in France will help drive sales toward that figure.

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