Paris FC has achieved a historic promotion to Ligue 1, ending a 46-year absence from France’s top football division. The team secured their return with a 1-1 draw against Martigues, confirming a top-two finish in Ligue 2. This marks the first time since the 1989–1990 season that two Parisian clubs—Paris FC and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG)—will compete in Ligue 1 simultaneously.
The promotion is a significant milestone for Paris FC, founded in 1969, which has spent only three seasons in Ligue 1, the last being in 1978–1979. The club’s return to the top tier is expected to reignite the Parisian football scene, with the prospect of a local derby between Paris FC and PSG adding excitement to the upcoming season.
In November 2024, the Arnault family, owners of the luxury conglomerate LVMH, acquired a majority stake in Paris FC, signaling a new era for the club. This acquisition, in partnership with Red Bull, has provided the financial backing and strategic vision necessary for the club’s ascent. The Arnaults have expressed their ambition to elevate Paris FC to the elite levels of French and European football.
Under the new ownership, Paris FC has outlined plans to invest up to €100 million in the transfer market, aiming for a top-10 finish in their debut Ligue 1 season. The club intends to retain a core group of around 15 players from the current squad, including key figures like Obed Nkambadio, Moustapha Mbow, Maxime Lopez, Ilan Kebbal, Adama Camara, Jean-Philippe Krasso, and Samir Chergui. Discussions are also underway to extend the contract of veteran defender Timothée Kolodziejczak. The transfer strategy focuses on adding 7 to 9 new signings, prioritizing quality over quantity, with an emphasis on French players.
The club has also announced plans to move their home ground from Stade Charléty to Stade Jean-Bouin, located just across the street from PSG’s Parc des Princes. This proximity is expected to intensify the local rivalry and add a new dimension to Parisian football.
Club President Pierre Ferracci, who has been at the helm since 2012, expressed his delight at the promotion, viewing it as a personal milestone and a testament to the club’s dedication and hard work. The return to Ligue 1 is seen as a revival of the club’s former glory, with aspirations to establish a strong presence in the top tier of French football.
As Paris FC prepares for their return to Ligue 1, the football community eagerly anticipates the renewed rivalry between the two Parisian clubs, which is set to add a new chapter to the rich history of French football.
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