The Paris FC football club has officially announced its move to the Stade Jean-Bouin, starting as early as the 2025-2026 season, marking a significant turning point in its ambition to rise within French football. This strategic shift, confirmed through a press release on February 12, 2025, indicates the Paris FC's intent to leave its current home at the Stade Charléty for this more suitable venue, which they will share with the Stade Français rugby club.
According to the details outlined by Paris FC, the arrangement with Stade Français allows them to occupy the Jean-Bouin for at least four years, ensuring multiple events can take place at this central Paris location. "Parvenir à cet accord pour jouer à Jean Bouin dès la saison prochaine était une priorité pour ma famille afin d’offrir à nos supporters, aux partenaires et aux spectateurs un cadre parfait pour voir évoluer les équipes du Paris FC," remarked Antoine Arnault, the club's shareholder. This transition is seen as a necessary step for Paris FC, which seeks to provide fans with enhanced viewing experiences.
Set adjacent to the iconic Parc des Princes, Stade Jean-Bouin underwent extensive renovations and features 20,000 seats, matching Charléty, and presenting itself as more attuned to hosting football matches. For Paris FC, which currently sits second in Ligue 2 with aspirations to ascend to Ligue 1, the switch is not just about changing locations but aligns with their growth strategy. The last time Paris FC played at the elite level was during the 1978-1979 season, making this upcoming move even more momentous.
The discussions about cohabitation between the Paris FC and Stade Français included plans for the necessary adjustments to synchronize match calendars, ensuring both clubs can play at home on separate weekends without conflicts. This logistical planning is pivotal, especially as both clubs prepare for what could be intense seasons, particularly if the Paris FC secures promotion to Ligue 1.
"L’arrivée d’un club de football parisien va contribuer à augmenter l’attractivité de cette somptueuse arène et à en faire un des lieux incontournables du sport de la capitale," explained Dr. Hans-Peter Wild, the owner of Stade Français. His comments reflect the optimism surrounding the potential joint venture between the two clubs, bringing together diverse sporting communities and adding to the dynamism of Parisian sports.
The logistical challenges of sharing the venue also extend to the playing surface. The current pitch, which caters to rugby, will need alterations to meet the standards required for football matches within Ligue 2 and Ligue 1. Currently, the Stade Français operates on synthetic turf, unsuitable for professional football competitions, compelling Paris FC to invest significantly this summer to replace it with hybrid grass, compliant with league standards. Dr. Wild and Arnault's cooperative efforts will be key to ensuring the new arrangements work smoothly.
Pierre Rabadan, the City Council member of Paris also expressed satisfaction with the agreement, stating, "Nous accueillons avec une grande satisfaction cette décision, qui permettra aux passionnés de sport de vivre des moments uniques et d’optimiser l’utilisation de cette infrastructure parisienne majeure." This reiteration from city officials emphasizes the broader community support for increasing activity at Jean-Bouin, making it more than just a venue for rugby, but also for football.
The arrival of Paris FC not only signifies the club's ambition but also highlights the evolution of sports culture within the French capital, which has been enriched by the presence of both football and rugby. While challenges persist, especially relating to scheduling and maintaining the pitch, the excitement and momentum leading up to this transition reflect the potential for future success for the Paris FC and its supporters.
With plans for hiring additional resources and potentially rebranding elements of the stadium to reflect the club's identity, the Paris FC is set to embrace its new home wholeheartedly. This careful planning showcases the organization’s commitment to creating not just matches, but memorable experiences, aligned with their eagerness to re-establish themselves at the top tiers of French football. "Dans ce nouvel écrin, le club débutera une nouvelle ère tout en ayant à cœur de bien finir d’écrire l’histoire pour cette dernière saison à Charléty," stated Arnault, hinting at the hopeful beginnings this agreement brings.
With the 2025-2026 season approaching, supporters are gearing up for what promises to be not only a season of competitive football but an opportunity to witness the new chapter of Paris FC's storied history at the Stade Jean-Bouin.