PARIS, Oct 17 — Paris could soon see a new major football club emerge as a challenger to Paris Saint-Germain, with a takeover of Paris FC by the Arnault family and Red Bull anticipated in the coming days.
Talks are underway between current majority shareholder Pierre Ferracci and the Arnault family, owners of LVMH, while Red Bull is expected to take a minority stake.
This takeover could significantly alter the French football landscape, ending PSG’s dominance since 2011 and possibly bringing two top-flight teams to Paris for the first time since 1990.
The Arnault family is poised to acquire a 55% controlling stake, with Red Bull taking 15%, while Ferracci retains 30% until transferring it to the Arnaults in 2027.
Paris FC's potential rise, fueled by Red Bull's successful football strategy and recent appointments, comes as the club aims for promotion to Ligue 1 this season. PSG’s president welcomed the idea of a new rival, viewing it as positive for Paris and French football.
Despite the current disparity in fan attendance—PSG attracts over 45,000 to their matches while Paris FC draws under 6,000—ambitions are high. Coach Stéphane Gilli hopes to boost attendance significantly, while former PSG star Rai, a small stakeholder in Paris FC, believes the city deserves two competitive top-flight clubs.