Bordeaux change owners as Park Bench takes over

Girondins de Bordeaux have avoided immediate liquidation after Gérard Lopez agreed to sell the club to Park Bench, but the rescue is not yet complete. Bordeaux are set to remain in Régionale 1, France’s sixth tier, for the 2026-27 season, subject to approval from the regional football authorities. Their first team is registered in the division, although its first four fixtures have been postponed.

The transfer was completed for a symbolic one euro, with Park Bench taking on the club’s liabilities. The overall debt has been cut from €26 million to €13 million, while repayment has been extended from 10 to 12 years. The Anglo-American investment group is also committing €18 million to the rebuild, with a rapid return to the national divisions as its stated sporting aim.

Bordeaux must still secure approval from the Commercial Court for changes to its continuation plan. The new owners must then present immediate banking guarantees to the Nouvelle-Aquitaine Football League’s financial control commission, including funding for the revised 2026-27 budget and outstanding staff salaries. Failure at either stage would leave the club exposed to renewed liquidation proceedings.

Park Bench is controlled by British investors Jeremy Green and James Bord, alongside American Evan Sofer. Dominique Delport, a former Vivendi and Havas executive, is expected to lead the club. Lopez leaves without compensation, surrendering his shares, shareholder loans and any future payment linked to a promotion or improved finances.