In a moment of triumph that’s been over four decades in the making, Paris FC has officially secured promotion to Ligue 1 for the 2025–26 season. A 1-1 draw against Martigues on May 2 sealed their place in France’s top division, marking their return for the first time since 1979. This historic achievement not only signals a new era for the club but also sets the stage for the long-awaited return of the Paris Derby against city giants Paris Saint-Germain (PSG).
Paris FC: From the Shadows to the Spotlight
Paris FC’s journey back to the top tier is nothing short of remarkable. Formed in 1969, the club was originally part of a short-lived merger with Stade Saint-Germain in 1970, which gave birth to PSG. However, political and sporting differences led to a split just two years later. Paris FC retained professional status and continued in Division 1, while PSG had to restart from the third tier.
Despite their head start, Paris FC struggled to establish themselves and were relegated in the 1978–79 season. Since then, they have wandered through the lower divisions, overshadowed by PSG’s meteoric rise to become a global football powerhouse. But now, 46 years later, Paris FC has written a new story one of resilience, ambition, and renaissance.
A Paris Derby for a New Era
With their promotion, Paris FC will now share the Ligue 1 spotlight with PSG, reviving a city rivalry that has been dormant for nearly half a century. And this time, it promises to be more intense than ever.
The club plans to move from their current home, Stade Charléty, to Stade Jean-Bouin located just a stone’s throw from PSG’s Parc des Princes. The proximity of the two venues sets the stage for one of the most heated local derbies in European football. For the first time since 1979, Parisian fans will get to witness a true Paris Derby in the top flight.
While PSG continues to dominate Ligue 1 with its star-studded squad and global brand, Paris FC brings a fresh narrative an underdog story backed by newfound ambition and investment.
Ambition Fuelled by New Ownership
Paris FC’s resurgence has been supercharged by new ownership and strategic investment. In late 2024, the Arnault family owners of luxury conglomerate LVMH acquired a majority stake in the club. Soon after, Red Bull joined as minority shareholders, adding a layer of sports business expertise and global networking power.
This influx of support has also seen the arrival of big names. Former Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp was appointed as Red Bull’s Global Head of Soccer, with Paris FC identified as a key club in their football portfolio. Former German striker Mario Gómez has also joined the club’s leadership, tasked with sporting strategy.
These moves show that Paris FC is not content with just making up the numbers in Ligue 1 they are here to challenge the status quo.
Paris FC Looking Ahead
The 2025–26 Ligue 1 season will be one for the history books. With Paris FC joining the elite, football fans are in for thrilling matchups and a revived rivalry in the heart of France’s capital. The Paris Derby promises to inject fresh excitement into the league, not just for local supporters, but for fans across Europe.
Paris FC’s return isn’t just a nostalgic nod to the past it’s a bold step into the future. As the club prepares for its top-tier comeback, one thing is clear: Paris now has two teams ready to battle for city supremacy.
