Girondins Bordeaux was one of the figureheads of French soccer for a long time, but now the six-time champions are facing the bitter prospect of relegation to the 3rd division
The traditional club has withdrawn its appeal against forced relegation from the 2nd to the 3rd division, as the club announced. Girondins were ordered to do so in mid-June following an economic audit by the DNCG, which is responsible for monitoring the financial prudence of all French clubs. The DNCG identified major financial problems.
Girondins initially appealed against the forced relegation, as the club was in talks with Fenway Sports Group, which is also involved with Liverpool FC, at the time. However, a planned takeover fell through at the last moment and FSG withdrew on Monday evening, according to Bordeaux.
“Despite assurances from various stakeholders, they do not want to continue. In the absence of new elements, FC Girondins de Bordeaux has therefore withdrawn its appeal against the DNCG’s decision of July 9, 2024,” the statement read. The club will accept the demotion. The beneficiary is ES Troyes, who finished 17th and in first place at the end of the 2023/24 season, but will now be allowed to continue playing in the second tier as the first team to be promoted
Bordeaux files for insolvency proceedings
Girondins Bordeaux was founded in 1881 and a soccer section was added in 1919. Since then, the club has won six championships and the cup four times. In 1996, Bordeaux reached the final of the UEFA Cup, but lost to FC Bayern Munich (1:3; 0:2). Girondins Bordeaux are second behind Olympique Marseille in the all-time French first division table. Alongside Marseille, Bordeaux has long been one of the clubs in France with the largest fan base.
Girondins Bordeaux will therefore compete in the Championat National in the coming season. The club must first submit a new budget to the DNCG. Girondins wants to return to financially calmer waters with the help of insolvency proceedings and thus lay the foundation for a sporting upswing
“The period that is now beginning should enable FC Girondins de Bordeaux to return stronger and at the highest level,” reads a statement on the club’s website. “The club and its shareholder assure fans and all stakeholders that they are committed to protecting the interests of the club. “
