Girondins de Bordeaux denied FFF move to National 2

The Girondins de Bordeaux will remain in Régional 1 after the French Football Federation rejected a request for the club to enter National 2. The decision removes the last available route back into the national divisions and brings Bordeaux closer to judicial liquidation.

The FFF executive committee examined whether its regulations allowed an exceptional admission, but concluded that no such provision existed. Reconsidering the case submitted by prospective owners Sparta Capital and Park Bench was also ruled out because it could have established a precedent. Régional 1 is the sixth tier of French football, leaving Bordeaux well below the level associated with its history.

The prospective buyers had said earlier that they would withdraw if the club stayed in Régional 1. Their position further weakens the possibility of a financial rescue after the DNCG barred Bordeaux from national competition in July because of its previous financial problems. The Paris administrative tribunal later upheld that decision and rejected the argument that the club had achieved a new basis for financial viability.

If liquidation follows, ownership would return to Gérard Lopez. The Ligue d’Aquitaine would then determine which division Bordeaux enters this season. The outcome leaves the club facing both the loss of its national status and uncertainty over whether it can continue in its current form.