French club Bordeaux announced the transfer of its ownership to the American investment fund "Park Bench" for a symbolic fee of just one euro, a move that puts an end to Gérard Lopez's tenure with the club after five years as its owner.
The change in ownership comes amid the financial crisis suffered by Bordeaux, which led to its relegation from the French first division to the sixth tier, as it currently prepares to start its new season.
Bordeaux said in a statement: "The sale was completed for a symbolic euro with the assumption of debts, at a crucial stage for the club's future."
The American investment fund is expected to assume debts worth nearly 18 million euros, according to French media reports.
The company is owned by American Evan Suff and Briton James Board. The fund also holds stakes in Spanish side Córdoba, which competes in the second division, and is the largest shareholder in Scottish team Dunfermline Athletic, which also plays in the second division.
Bordeaux has been facing a financial and administrative crisis since 2021, having undergone judicial administration procedures twice and suffering two relegations by decision of the National Control Directorate.
Bordeaux spent the last two seasons in the French third division, before its financial problems worsened this year, leading to its relegation to the sixth division.
Bordeaux now needs approval from the regional administrative control committee of the football league for the sale process and the 2026-2027 season budget, in order to be able to participate in the sixth division.
The commercial court in Bordeaux must also approve the club's plan to avoid its liquidation and permanent dissolution.
Bordeaux won the French league title in the 2008-2009 season, but it currently faces a new challenge: rebuilding the club and gradually returning to competition in higher tiers of French football.
