Paris FC, which played a role in the founding of Paris Saint-Germain in 1970 but soon separated, secured promotion to Ligue 1 after a 1-1 draw against Martigues and a 3-3 result between Metz and Rodez. This achievement came in a season where the Arnault family (owner of LVMH) and Red Bull acquired the club, launching an ambitious project.

Paris FC, long overshadowed by the seemingly untouchable giant Paris Saint-Germain, has now reached Ligue 1 under the guidance of Stéphane Gilli and without extravagant spending (only signing two players, Desmet and Cafaro, in the winter). This promotion, achieved after years of near misses in critical moments, brings a capital derby to France.

This derby, with a mere 100-meter distance between the new home of Paris FC, Stade Jean-Bouin, and Parc des Princes (Paris Saint-Germain’s stadium), will be the closest derby between teams without a shared stadium.

In November, former owner Fracci sold 55% of the shares to the Arnault family and 15% to Red Bull. By 2027, the Arnaults will hold 85% of the shares, but contrary to rumors, the team will not be renamed “RB Paris.” Red Bull’s entry has generated significant excitement, with Jürgen Klopp, the football director of the project, visiting the Charlety Stadium in January and criticizing the distance between the stands and the pitch. Red Bull also appointed Mario Gomez as CEO.

Paris FC’s summer transfer market will be closely watched. Although the Arnaults have stated they will avoid unreasonable spending, the club’s substantial budget and long-term goal of competing with Paris Saint-Germain promise an exciting market. Players like Maxime Lopez (former Marseille star), Kolo (ex-Sevilla player), and Krasso (a €10 million signing) form the foundation of this project.

The last derby between these two teams was in 1979, ending in a 1-1 draw with Carlos Bianchi scoring for Paris Saint-Germain, just as Paris FC was relegated to the second division. Now, after 46 years, Paris will witness a major derby that could continue for years, contributing to the growth of French football.