Breaking News: France's Radio France Restructures Major Channels

France Inter and FIP to Merge, Create New 'France Culture Écoute'

French public radio channel Radio France announced a major restructuring plan, merging its popular news and culture channel France Inter with its music channel FIP to create a new entity called "France Culture Écoute".

The announcement, made by Radio France president Sibyle Veil, sent shockwaves through the French media landscape. France Inter, with its renowned news programs and high-profile journalists, is one of the most listened-to radio channels in the country. FIP, known for its eclectic music programming, has also gained a loyal following.

According to Veil, the merger aims to "adapt to the changing media landscape and to offer listeners a more comprehensive and innovative experience." She emphasized that the new channel will maintain the editorial independence and specific strengths of both France Inter and FIP.

The new "France Culture Écoute" is expected to launch in the fall of 2023. Further details, including the channel's frequency and programming schedule, will be announced in the coming months.