Fenway Sports Group in Talks to Acquire Bordeaux, Expand Multi-Club Model
ICARO Media Group
In an exciting development for the world of sports ownership, Fenway Sports Group (FSG), the owners of Liverpool Football Club, has confirmed that they are in the early stages of dialogue and engagement to potentially acquire French club Bordeaux. The news was also confirmed by Bordeaux in their own statement, indicating that talks are underway.
However, both parties have acknowledged that there are several issues and considerations that need to be addressed before any deal can be finalized. A thorough due diligence process will be conducted to assess the feasibility of the acquisition and ensure compatibility between the two entities.
It is worth noting that if FSG does go ahead with the purchase, Bordeaux would remain an independent entity, with no direct connection to Liverpool. FSG has expressed a desire for any club they acquire to maintain its independence and identity.
The move towards a multi-club model by FSG has been a long-time aspiration, becoming more apparent since the appointment of Michael Edwards as a senior figure within the group. Edwards, who now oversees the football operations for FSG, recently appointed Pedro Marques, previously of Benfica, as the director of football development. This move signifies FSG's ambition to expand its portfolio of clubs.
For Bordeaux, the potential acquisition comes at a critical juncture. The club is currently appealing a decision by the Direction Nationale du Controle de Gestion (DNCG), the body responsible for overseeing the finances of French football clubs, to relegate them from the second tier to the third division. Bordeaux is striving to provide the necessary financial guarantees for the upcoming 2024-25 campaign and sees selling a majority stake to FSG as a potential solution. Negotiations between the two parties are ongoing.
Bordeaux, one of the most prominent clubs in France with six championship titles, has faced financial difficulties in recent years. Their relegation to Ligue 2 in the 2021-22 season marked a challenging period for the club. Under the guidance of former Liverpool winger Albert Riera, Bordeaux finished 12th in Ligue 2 during the 2023-24 season.
As FSG explores the possibility of acquiring Bordeaux, it presents an opportunity for both parties. For FSG, it allows them to expand their multi-club model and further diversify their sports portfolio. For Bordeaux, it could provide much-needed stability and resources to navigate their financial challenges and regain their position in the French top-flight.
While there are hurdles to overcome, the potential synergy between FSG and Bordeaux has captured the attention of football enthusiasts. As negotiations progress, all eyes will be on the outcome of this exciting venture.