The women’s lifestyle publication Elle is expanding its editorial focus with the development of a dedicated sports vertical. The project, titled “Elle Sport,” is scheduled to launch in the first half of 2027, according to an announcement made by Véronique Philipponnat, director of Elle France, during a conference at the Ken Club in Paris on November 4.
The platform is intended to serve as a digital hub for women’s sports, with plans to broadcast live competitions and matches. While the specific technical infrastructure remains in development, Philipponnat indicated that the team is exploring distribution through connected TV (CTV) channels and the magazine’s existing YouTube presence.
Acquiring Broadcasting Rights and Content Strategy
A primary objective for the new vertical is to secure broadcasting rights for women’s sporting events. The editorial strategy involves balancing the promotion of individual athletes with broader coverage of women’s sports leagues. Philipponnat noted that future acquisitions will be determined by a variety of factors, including broadcasting costs, ongoing negotiations with federations, and the alignment of competition calendars.
To assist in shaping the editorial direction, the publication has appointed Matthias Gurtler, former editorial director of L’Équipe and Gala, to serve as a consultant. Beyond digital streaming, the project includes plans for a dedicated sports section on the Elle website, increased coverage in the print magazine, and a standalone special edition magazine focused on women in sports.
Twelve High-Level Athletes Represent the Elle Sport Initiative
Leading up to the 2027 launch, the Elle Sport initiative is represented by a group of twelve high-level athletes. This ambassador network includes triathlete Cassandre Beaugrand, cyclist Heïdi Gaugain, pole vaulter Marie-Julie Bonnin, rugby players Pauline Bourdon-Sansus and Ambre Mwayembe, surfer Johanne Defay, judoka Romane Dicko, skipper Violette Dorange, trail runner Blandine L’Hirondel, basketball player Janelle Salaün, handball player Grâce Zaadi Deuna, and PSG football captain Sakina Karchaoui.
For Karchaoui, the project represents an opportunity to influence younger generations. “We have the chance that football is a mediatized sport, but we can do better; it is up to us to impose ourselves,” Karchaoui stated regarding her involvement. Philipponnat emphasized that the selection of these ambassadors was based on their professional performance and personal profiles, aiming to position them as icons within the sports industry.
The ecosystem also includes additional contributors beyond the core twelve ambassadors, such as kickboxing world champion Sarah Kaddour and content creator Kaatsup. These figures are expected to contribute to the platform’s content, which will be distributed across the magazine’s digital and social media channels.
Future Developments
While the project is underway, the exact operational framework for the 2027 platform remains subject to further planning. The publication has committed to integrating the coverage of these athletes into its regular magazine cycle, with dedicated features planned around major competition dates. The next phase of development will focus on finalizing the distribution partnerships and competition schedules ahead of the first-half 2027 launch window.
