Fenway Sports Group (FSG) will not purchase Girondins de Bordeaux, it has been confirmed. Liverpool’s owners have pulled out of talks to buy the French club, provisionally relegated to the National 1, the third tier of French football.
The DNCG, French football’s financial watchdog, provisionally relegated Bordeaux to the third tier of French football last week. In the wake of that decision, it was announced that Bordeaux, as expected, would contest the ruling, but it was also announced that FSG were in discussions to purchase the club. Not only that, but a member of counsel from FSG was even present at the DNCG meeting, whilst John Henry had also taken part in meetings regarding the takeover.
However, both FSG and Bordeaux have now confirmed in separate statements that there will not be a takeover. “FC Girondins de Bordeaux and their owner have been informed by Fenway Sports Group of their intention to not continue in talks, which have been ongoing in recent weeks, regarding the purchase of the club. This decision is notably due to the considerable cost of the stadium in the coming years but also the general economic context of French football,” began Bordeaux’s statement.
FSG ‘disappointed’ not to have found agreement
“Girondins de Bordeaux and Gérard Lopez thank Fenway Sports Group for the interest that they have shown in the club, as well as their teams, who have travelled to meet the relevant parties. The club and its owner are now putting all of their energy into the finalisation of the financial plan for the 2024/25 season, in view of the appeal hearing,” added the statement.
FSG confirmed the failure of the talks. “Despite our disappointment at having not found a favourable outcome, we wish the club and its supporters the best possible future,” concluded the statement from Liverpool’s owners. The breakdown in negotiations leaves Bordeaux in a precarious position as they look to appeal their provisional relegation next week and retake their place in Ligue 2 ahead of the upcoming season.
GFFN | Luke Entwistle
