Waldemar Kita could stay as Nantes sale awaits approval

FC Nantes’ planned change of ownership is still not guaranteed, leaving Waldemar Kita with a route to remain president despite an agreement with Phenix Sports Invest. The family’s nearly 20-year period in charge has therefore not definitively ended.

Jacky Bonnevay, representing Kita, said on Canal+ that the current owner would continue leading Nantes if the takeover fails to secure approval from the DNCG, French football’s financial regulator. The body now has expanded powers to examine the financial strength of ownership changes, making its decision the key stage in the process.

The sale discussions have advanced substantially, with an agreement reached and a defined project presented by the prospective buyer. The financial operation is also well advanced. However, the deal remains conditional until the DNCG grants its approval, so negotiations over a price or the search for a buyer are no longer the main issue.

If the regulator gives the green light, the Kita era at Nantes should come to an end. A refusal would keep Waldemar Kita in charge and prevent the transition many supporters had already considered close to completion. The next stage will centre on whether Phenix Sports Invest can provide the guarantees required for the takeover to proceed.