Michele Kang becomes majority shareholder of Olympique Lyonnais, which remains in Ligue 1 despite strict DNCG oversight

The 2026-2027 Ligue 1 season begins with a major turning point for Olympique Lyonnais. This Friday, American businesswoman Michele Kang officially acquired all shares held by Eagle Football Group, thereby becoming the majority shareholder of the club. This deal, concluded for approximately $30 million (€26.3 million), confirms her effective takeover of the team, which she had already been leading for the past year.

In a press conference held at the club's headquarters in Décines-Charpieu, Michele Kang expressed her pride and enthusiasm: "It is with immense pride and great honor that I announce the finalization of this operation." She also confirmed that OL would remain in Ligue 1 following the DNCG's official decision. The club, which finished fourth in the league last season, continues to aim for European ambitions while ensuring renewed financial stability.

The financial operation was not limited to the share purchase. A first tranche of a shareholder loan amounting to €31 million was allocated to the club, with a commitment potentially reaching €71 million over the next two seasons. Additionally, over €230 million in debt was canceled, significantly relieving the club. Michele Kang also announced the launch of a mandatory public offer for the remaining shares.

On the sporting front, a first move was the appointment of Matthieu Louis-Jean as sporting director, a role he previously held as technical director. Michael Gerlinger remains the general manager, while Michele Kang retains her position as president of OL and CEO of Eagle Football Group. After a challenging year of restructuring, marked by significant debt and sanctions, the Rhône-based club now hopes to regain an upward trajectory.

Meanwhile, the Direction Nationale du Contrôle de Gestion (DNCG) officially imposed strict oversight on wage bills and transfer fees for both Olympique Lyonnais and Olympique de Marseille. This financial sanction, linked notably to the change of control in Lyon and Marseille's financial difficulties, aims to ensure the economic sustainability of the two iconic Ligue 1 clubs.

OM, which had already been sanctioned by UEFA for breaching Financial Fair Play with a €10 million fine, once again sees its finances closely monitored by the DNCG. This measure follows a complex 2025-2026 season and marks another step in the financial regulation of French football.

Thus, this dual financial and sporting news highlights the major challenges of professional football in France. OL, under Michele Kang's leadership, intends to stabilize its management while remaining competitive on the pitch, while the DNCG continues its role as the guardian of the league's financial compliance. The start of the season is therefore set to be highly tense, with historic clubs navigating between financial challenges and sporting ambitions.