Bordeaux Faces Demotion To French Third Tier After Collapse Of FSG Takeover Talks

Bordeaux will compete in the third tier of French football next season after a proposed takeover by Liverpool's owners, Fenway Sports Group (FSG), collapsed. The six-time French champions, who last secured Ligue 1 in 2008-09, have spent the past two seasons in Ligue 2 following their relegation from the top flight in 2021-22.

They finished 12th under former Liverpool and Spain winger Albert Riera last term. However, their ongoing financial issues led the Direction Nationale du Controle de Gestion (DNCG) to recommend their demotion to the Championnat National. Bordeaux successfully appealed a similar sanction in 2022 but have now accepted the punishment for the upcoming 2024-25 season after FSG withdrew from takeover talks.

Despite recent discussions, FSG representatives informed Bordeaux and its shareholders on Monday, July 22, that they would not proceed with the takeover. This decision came despite assurances provided by various stakeholders. A club statement confirmed this development and indicated that Bordeaux would withdraw their appeal against the DNCG's decision.

The club stated: "While discussions had resumed in recent days, FSG representatives indicated yesterday, Monday, July 22, to Bordeaux and its shareholders their desire not to follow through despite the assurances provided by various stakeholders."

As a result of FSG's withdrawal, Bordeaux has accepted administrative demotion to the Championnat National for the 2024-2025 season. They will be required to present their budget to the DNCG once again. The club hopes this period will allow them to rebuild and return stronger.

Bordeaux's statement continued: "Therefore, in the absence of new elements, Bordeaux withdrew the appeal lodged against the decision of the DNCG. As a result, Bordeaux accepts the sanction of administrative demotion to the Championnat National for the 2024-2025 season and will be summoned again to present its budget to the DNCG."

The club remains optimistic about its future despite these setbacks. They believe this challenging period can serve as an opportunity for growth and eventual return to higher levels of competition.

"The period which is opening should allow FC Girondins de Bordeaux to come back stronger and at the highest level," concluded their statement.