Billionaire Bernard Arnault Set to Acquire Majority Stake in Paris FC with Red Bull's Support

Posted : 11 October 2024

Bernard Arnault, the owner of luxury brand powerhouse Louis Vuitton and one of the wealthiest people globally, is nearing the acquisition of a majority stake in Paris FC, a football club in France’s second division. Arnault, whose net worth is approximately $182 billion, plans to secure around 85% ownership of the club. Through his holding company Agache, Arnault intends to buy out existing chairman Pierre Ferracci’s 30% stake along with an additional 55% to gain majority control. This acquisition reflects Arnault’s latest investment venture, marking a strategic move into the sports sector.

To enhance Paris FC’s competitive prospects, Arnault has sought the expertise of Red Bull, a company well-versed in football management and operations. Red Bull, renowned for its sports-related investments and ownership of various football clubs worldwide, is expected to acquire a 15% stake in Paris FC as part of the arrangement. With Red Bull’s involvement, the aim is to elevate Paris FC to a higher level of performance, eventually securing a place in France’s premier division and targeting future Champions League participation.

Paris FC, established in 1972, currently leads the second division and has built a strong reputation for developing young talent through its well-regarded academy. According to reports from French sports publication *L'Équipe*, Arnault and his partners plan to invest between €100 million and €200 million over the coming years to support the club’s ambitions. This investment is intended to help Paris FC achieve promotion to Ligue 1, which would position it as a competitor on both national and European stages in the near future.

The Arnault family’s growing interest in sports extends beyond football, following Louis Vuitton’s recent billion-dollar sponsorship of Formula 1 and previous involvement in the Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games. Arnault, now 75, has amassed a global empire of over 70 luxury brands, including Louis Vuitton, Tiffany, and Dior, under the LVMH group, which boasts a market valuation nearing half a trillion dollars. His ventures into sports mirror a trend among wealthy families in France, such as the Pinault family’s ownership of Stade Rennes, as they expand their influence into new arenas.

Billionaire Bernard Arnault Set to Acquire Majority Stake in Paris FC with Red Bull's Support

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