The Paris FC has officially secured its long-awaited promotion to Ligue 1 on May 2, 2025, with a 1-1 draw against Martigues. This marks the club’s return to France’s top football division for the first time in 46 years, setting the stage for a historic all-Paris rivalry with Paris Saint-Germain — the first time two Parisian teams will compete in Ligue 1 since 1990.
Next season, Paris FC and PSG will meet in what promises to be one of Europe’s most closely contested derbies. Paris FC’s new home, the Stade Jean-Bouin, is located just a street away from PSG’s Parc des Princes, which will intensify the rivalry and add a new level of drama to every encounter between the two.
Paris FC’s rise is also backed by significant investment. The Arnault family (owners of LVMH) now holds 55% of the club, with Red Bull owning another 15%. This financial power, combined with strategic sporting decisions, ensures that Paris FC will be aiming not just to survive in Ligue 1, but to challenge for a place in European competitions in the coming seasons.
Although Paris FC and PSG were originally founded together in 1970, the clubs have since gone their separate ways. While PSG quickly rose to prominence and became the face of Parisian football, Paris FC faded into the background. However, with their return to Ligue 1, the rivalry is set to be reignited — and this time, it promises to be much more competitive.
Paris Saint-Germain’s president, Nasser Al-Khelaïfi, plays a central role in the club’s current dominance. Since taking charge in 2011, Al-Khelaïfi has transformed PSG into a global football powerhouse, backed by Qatari investments. While PSG continues to be one of the richest and most high-profile clubs in the world, Paris FC’s rise to Ligue 1 presents an unprecedented challenge for Al-Khelaïfi and his ambitions. This new rivalry promises to test PSG’s supremacy in the capital, as a more balanced local derby could spark renewed excitement in the national competition.
Ambitions for the 2025-2026 Season
Under coach Stéphane Gilli, Paris FC is expected to make further strides in strengthening their squad, with targets such as Maxime Lopez, Kolo, and Krasso already rumored to join the club. Armed with financial backing and a clear vision, the club aims to establish itself as a force in French football.
Paris FC’s promotion to Ligue 1 is not just a success story — it’s the beginning of an exciting new chapter in Parisian football. As the 2025-2026 season approaches, the rivalry with PSG promises to shape the future of French football.
