Lille’s Létang and Marseille’s Richard battle for EFC board seat
Olivier Létang has been elected to the board of the European Football Clubs (EFC) in Copenhague, replacing Pablo Longoria. The LOSC president secured 27 votes on Tuesday afternoon, defeating Stéphane Richard, the newly appointed president of Olympique de Marseille. ’s Nicolas Pelletier reported from Denmark.
European Football Clubs General Assembly gathers in Denmark
Since Monday, more than 850 club leaders have assembled in Copenhague for the 2026 General Assembly of the EFC. The body, which represents the continent’s most powerful clubs, is chaired by Nasser Al‑Khelaïfi. Delegates have been discussing governance issues and preparing for the board elections.
The contest pitted the LOSC chief, Olivier Létang, against Stéphane Richard, the freshly installed president of Olympique de Marseille. Létang has been involved with the EFC for several seasons and entered the race as the clear favourite. Richard, a newcomer to the football administration scene, signalled his ambition to join the institution’s upper echelons.
When the votes were counted, Létang secured 27 votes, confirming his election to the board. He will serve for one year, remaining in place until the current cycle concludes. The vacancy he fills opened when Pablo Longoria departed Olympique de Marseille a few months earlier.
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Létang’s growing influence on the European stage
The new appointment bolsters Létang’s profile among his European peers, where he enjoys a strong reputation. Lille, under his stewardship, is frequently cited for its consistent performance in continental competitions and sound club management. His presence on the board reinforces the French voice within the EFC.
French clubs have been vying for representation after Longoria’s exit, with Marseille’s leadership now at odds with the broader French football establishment. Nasser Al‑Khelaïfi’s stance appears to have swayed the outcome, as the Olympique de Marseille hierarchy has recently found itself in opposition alongside RC Lens. The shifting alliances may shape future EFC deliberations.
Létang’s term will run until the end of the current board cycle, during which the EFC will address issues ranging from financial fair play to competition formats. His tenure offers an opportunity for French clubs to influence key decisions at the continental level.