The British investment fund Sparta Capital has secured the €10 million in funding required to acquire and rescue Girondins de Bordeaux, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the historic French club.

Bordeaux had until Friday to complete its appeal before the French National Olympic and Sports Committee (CNOSF) against the decision by the National Directorate of Management Control (DNCG) to exclude the club from all national competitions.

With the €10 million now deposited as a financial guarantee to fund the upcoming season, Bordeaux is hoping to overturn the ruling and secure reinstatement to the Championnat National (France’s third tier), a decision that would ensure the club’s immediate future.

The funds will only be released if Bordeaux successfully overturns the ban and is readmitted to the national league system.

The arrival of Sparta Capital and Park Bench also signals the departure of Spanish-French businessman Gérard Lopez. According to French media reports, Lopez, who acquired Bordeaux in 2021, sold the club for the symbolic price of €1.

“The rebuilding process will take time, but Bordeaux has every foundation to rise again,” the new owners said in a statement released by the club.

“We understand the responsibility that comes with being part of this history, and we know that a football club is far more than a balance sheet. Our mission is clear: to honour the past while building the future with patience and discipline. Our immediate priority is stability—establishing the governance, vision and expertise needed to move forward with confidence.”

Frank Tuil, founder and CEO of Sparta Capital, highlighted his previous experience in football ownership.

“After being involved in AC Milan’s turnaround from 2018, which culminated in the club winning the Serie A title again just a few years later, it is an honour to be in a position to lead the reconstruction of Girondins de Bordeaux.”

“I will approach this project with the humility and energy it deserves, and I would like to thank Gérard Lopez and Park Bench for their support in completing this transaction within the required timeframe.”