Set to launch on June 6, 2025, T18 is poised to introduce a fresh perspective to the competitive French broadcasting market. Christopher Baldelli, speaking at the seventh edition of Médias en Seine, expressed optimism about the channel's future during its presentation to ARCOM, France's media regulator. Formerly known as Réels TV, T18 is backed by Czech media mogul Daniel Kretinsky’s company, CMI. The channel aims to achieve profitability within a few years, focusing on financial sustainability from the outset. With a commitment to airing over 3,000 hours of documentaries and 1,000 hours of information or societal magazines annually, T18 plans to offer unique and complementary content. This ambitious project reflects the evolving media landscape and the growing demand for specialized programming among French viewers.

Baldelli emphasized that T18 is not just another addition to the crowded television market but a strategic move to provide diverse and rich content. The channel has pledged to broadcast at least 1,260 hours of original programming each year, covering various genres such as science, history, geopolitics, culture, and social themes. To stand out, T18 will also showcase 20 artistic films and 25 live performances during prime time. This approach underscores the channel's intention to cater to a wide range of interests while maintaining high-quality production standards. Baldelli acknowledged that the first three years might see financial losses, but he remains confident that T18 can reach equilibrium by the fourth year. The annual budget is expected to scale up to around 30 million euros once the channel reaches operational stability.

The launch of T18 comes at a time when the French television market is already saturated, with 25 channels available on French TNT. Baldelli recognized this challenge and stressed that T18 does not aim to replicate existing offerings. Instead, it seeks to provide different and complementary content, addressing the need for specialized programming. This strategy could be the key to attracting viewers and advertisers in an increasingly competitive environment. The channel's commitment to diversity and innovation aligns with the changing preferences of audiences who are looking for more niche and varied options. By focusing on unexplored niches, T18 hopes to carve out a unique space in the media landscape.

T18's launch represents a significant moment in the evolution of television consumption in France. As viewers seek channels with specialized and differentiated content, T18's diversification strategy positions it to meet these demands. Supported by notable stakeholders, the channel's unique value proposition has generated anticipation among both creators and audiences eager for fresh content. In the coming months, all eyes will be on T18 as it prepares to engage the public and establish itself as a viable and successful player in the French television scene. The channel's ability to fulfill its commitments and navigate the competitive media landscape will be closely watched as it strives to make its mark.