Zidane's former club sold for just €1 after shocking downfall

Once a powerhouse in French football, Bordeaux has plummeted to the sixth division after years of financial woes. It's hard to believe that this historic club, which boasted six French league titles and once featured Zinedine Zidane, was sold for a mere €1. But that's precisely what occurred to Girondins de Bordeaux, one of France's most storied clubs.

The once elite team, who once competed against the continent's biggest teams, is now being owned by investment firm Park Bench for a symbolic sum. The situation is even more astonishing. Bordeaux, who just four years ago played in the top French division, will now compete in the sixth tier of French football for the 2026/27 season.

Bordeaux's history is impressive. They have won the French league six times, with their most recent victory in 2009. Zidane's rise to fame began at this very club, before he went on to play for Juventus and become one of football's greatest players. Other notable players, such as Bixente Lizarazu and Christophe Dugarry, also donned the Bordeaux jersey.

However, financial troubles started to plague the club. They were relegated from Ligue 1 in 2022 and faced more financial struggles. In 2024, Bordeaux lost its professional status. The club's debts, totaling €26 million, have been reduced under a restructuring plan to €13 million over a period of 12 years. The new owners will have to present their plan for approval at a commercial court on October 20.

While the takeover provides a glimmer of hope for Bordeaux supporters after years of uncertainty, the road to redemption will be a long and challenging one.