Park Bench investment offers Girondins de Bordeaux lifeline as they eye Régional 1 restart
In the shadow of the Garonne, the once‑glamorous Girondins de Bordeaux prepared for a possible rebirth after weeks of financial gloom. Excluded from all national championships at the start of September because of a catastrophic financial state, the club seemed on the brink of closure. Supporters had practically lost hope of ever seeing their club recover, but on Thursday a serious reason to hope emerged.
Investment breakthrough emerges
The investment fund Park Bench is reportedly on the verge of purchasing the club. The information was disclosed by Sud‑Ouest, which explained that an agreement was being finalised between the potential buyer and Gérard Lopez. Representatives of both parties informed the Bordeaux commercial court on Wednesday that a deal had indeed been reached, although the signed documents required for the court to ratify the agreement and the continuation plan have not yet been provided.
If everything falls into place, the Girondins will restart the 2026‑2027 season in Régional 1, the sixth tier of French football. While the sporting implications are straightforward, the financial side is considerably more complex.
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Plan to cut debts and restart
A renegotiation of debts will be necessary. The ten‑year continuation plan is set to extend to twelve years, and the amount of claims will be halved, dropping from twenty‑six million euros to thirteen million euros. Gérard Lopez is expected to surrender his shares for a symbolic euro, while also relinquishing his claims and a clause that would allow him to regain control if the club’s fortunes improve.
Another lingering issue concerns the termination indemnities owed to Vladimir Petkovic and his assistant from February 2022. The two men have reportedly agreed to a significantly reduced settlement. Once the commercial court gives its approval, the budget for the 2026‑2027 season must be validated by the regional club‑control commission before the Girondins can return to the pitch and resume their profession, leaving behind the dramatic era of Gérard Lopez.
Park Bench's bid gives Girondins de Bordeaux a lifeline
"Les supporters" who had watched the club teeter on the edge now have a tangible prospect of revival, thanks to the Park Bench proposal and the restructuring measures outlined above.