RC Lens have raised around €30 million following the arrival of two new shareholders, US investment fund Entrepreneur Equity Partners (EEP) and local businessman Jean-Paul Lempereur, who together acquired around 16.72% of the French club.
The majority of Lens’ share capital remains in the hands of Joseph Oughourlian, who holds 69.1%, while Side Invest retains a 13.56% stake and former club captain Seko Fofana owns 0.62%.
Oughourlian told French newspaper Lensois that the transaction was completed for around €30 million, valuing the club at €155 million — the same valuation at which Lens sold a 13.56% stake to Side Invest three years ago for approximately €20 million.
EEP’s investment, which gives the US fund a 13.5% stake in Lens, will be used to finance development projects at the Bollaert-Delelis stadium, which the club acquired from the city last December, as well as in the surrounding area.
The aim is to transform the stadium into a venue capable of generating revenue and attracting visitors throughout the year, rather than solely on matchdays.
The club plans to improve the fan experience, develop new activities and diversify its revenue streams. Details of the development projects are expected to be unveiled soon.
“important moment”
“This is an important moment for the club as we announce the arrival of two new shareholders. Tim Leiweke represents EEP. EEP is regarded as a market leader in the United States in stadium infrastructure, events and experiences. Racing has owned the Bollaert-Delelis stadium since last December, and it made sense to seek the help of someone with expertise in this area,” Lens president Joseph Oughourlian said.
With French clubs facing a challenging financial environment, Oughourlian also clarified the purpose of the investment: “These two new partners will inject enough money into the club to carry out all the stadium infrastructure projects. They allow us to think big. These investments are not intended to buy new players or increase the wage bill, but rather to invest in infrastructure that will support the growth of our commercial revenues and make the club more sustainable.”
Tim Leiweke, who will join Lens’ board of directors, highlighted the club’s “challenger mentality” and its “working-class DNA”.
“We also come from a working-class background. We are a family that values humility and a strong work ethic. We love what the club stands for and what its supporters represent. We are a minority shareholder and intend to remain so,” he said.
EEP already holds a significant stake in Serie A club Venezia and recently saw Benfica block its proposed acquisition of a 16% stake in the Portuguese club’s SAD for more than €36 million.