Paris FC is on the brink of a takeover by new investors, including Jürgen Klopp and Red Bull, igniting excitement and concern among fans. Having awaited a true city derby for over two decades, supporters hope to see Paris FC contend with PSG, backed by the financial prowess of Red Bull and luxury brand LVMH. The deal, expected to be finalized soon, raises fears of losing club identity while promising a brighter future.
In France, a significant takeover of Paris FC by new investors is on the verge of happening, with Jürgen Klopp and Red Bull playing pivotal roles—sparking a mix of excitement and concern. With its investments in Leeds United, the group is poised to have a presence in three of the five major European football leagues.
For more than 24 years, soccer fans in Paris have been yearning for a genuine city derby within the elite league. The last encounter between Paris Saint-Germain and Racing Paris took place in February 1990, resulting in PSG’s local rivals facing relegation that season. However, that wait may soon come to an end as Paris FC is preparing to take on the powerful PSG, bolstered by the considerable resources of Red Bull—along with the strategic expertise of Jürgen Klopp.
The energy drink powerhouse aims to embark on another long-term venture in professional football in collaboration with LVMH, the luxury brand conglomerate owned by Bernard Arnault, one of the globe’s wealthiest individuals. This partnership, emerging shortly after Klopp’s appointment, seeks to leverage their financial might and football knowledge to transform Paris FC from a second-division team into a true contender against the dominant French club. The deal, which has elicited mixed reactions from fans, is anticipated to be finalized within the week.
Could the Announcement Be Made on Thursday?
“Finally, we will see a legitimate derby in Paris, akin to what we observe in London, Madrid, or Milan,” remarked Jean-Baptiste Guegan, a sports geopolitics expert and PSG enthusiast, to AFP. He believes that Paris FC stands to gain significantly from the financial influx, “and from Red Bull’s proven sporting expertise, especially with Jürgen Klopp’s arrival to lead soccer operations.”
Reports indicate that the announcement of the deal could come as early as Thursday. The Arnault family is expected to acquire 55 percent of the shares, while Red Bull would obtain 15 percent, leaving 30 percent with the current president and shareholder, Pierre Ferracci.
This new development presents a dilemma for the Ligue 2 frontrunners’ supporters. While they welcome the prospect of increased success, they hesitate to embrace it at any cost. The potential involvement of Red Bull raises concerns, as fans are wary of the implications of a Leipzig or Salzburg-style association. “We don’t want to see Red Bull Paris,” a spokesperson for the Ultras expressed to Le Parisien. They fear that such a transformation could undermine their core values. There are also worries about “multiple ownership” and potential “conflicts of interest,” particularly regarding the positioning of one club over another.
“A Mix of Hope and Apprehension”
Ferracci reassured the Ultras that there would be no rebranding while also assuring them of a substantial budget. Overall, the sentiment among the Ultras reflects “a mix of hope and some apprehension.” As for rival clubs, they are maintaining a steady outlook for now. PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi remarked, “It’s beneficial for Paris and for French football.” According to Guegan, a new competitor would “certainly challenge” PSG, which is bankrolled by Qatari funding, compelling them to enhance their operations.
Through its shares in Leeds United, which Red Bull has owned for several months, the organization is set to have a stake in three of Europe’s five major football nations. With Klopp transitioning into a strategic role as Head of Global Soccer, he may also provide valuable insights to help elevate Paris FC.