Discussions between the Girondins de Bordeaux, relegated to National (3e division) as a precautionary measure for financial reasons, and the American group Fenway Sports Group, owner of Liverpool which wanted to buy them, ended on Tuesday.
The cost of the stadium and TV rights did not help
The club with the scapular, which appealed its demotion, said it had “been informed by Fenway Sports Group of its desire not to pursue discussions.”
“This decision is explained in particular by the significant cost of the stadium in the years to come, but also by the general economic context of French football,” the text continues. “The club and its shareholder are now putting all their energy into finalizing a financing plan for the 2024/2025 season in view of the appeal hearing,” scheduled for July 23 or 24.
A sales process abruptly stopped
Fenway Sports Group (FSG), owner of the Pittsburgh Penguins (NHL), the Boston Red Sox (MLB) and Liverpool (Premier League), had contacted owner Gerard Lopez several weeks ago and had even participated in the Girondins’ hearing before the DNCG last Tuesday.
As proof of its desire to buy the club, the American group had sent five of its representatives to Gironde who were due to meet the mayor of Bordeaux and the president of Bordeaux Métropole this week.
“Following extensive and constructive discussions with all stakeholders, Fenway Sports Group has made the decision not to pursue the acquisition of FC Girondins de Bordeaux,” the American group said in a separate statement. “Despite our disappointment at not being able to find a viable outcome, we wish the club and its supporters the best possible future,” FSG added.
The cost of operating the Matmut Atlantique stadium as well as the disappointing outcome of the L1 television rights saga, and their impact on the prospect of a possible return of the Girondins to the elite, played a role in this decision.
Only Gerard Lopez seems able to save the club
Now, only funding from majority shareholder Gerard Lopez, via his company Jogo Bonito, seems able to save the Girondins from relegation to the National and return to Ligue 2.
The Girondins need 40 million euros to balance their accounts and cover next season’s budget.
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