BORDEAUX FALLS: Six-Time French Champions Relegated to Sixth Tier...

Bordeaux, the Ligue 1 powerhouse where Zinedine Zidane built his reputation before becoming France's national coach, will start the 2026-27 season in France's sixth tier after failing to produce roughly 10 million euros needed for operating budgets and debt payments. The club was sold for one euro to American investment group Park Bench, which will attempt a 12-year restructuring plan that cuts debt in half. From a six-time domestic champion to an mostly amateur squad with just five professional contracts—a stunning collapse that mirrors the financial crises hollowing out European football clubs.