Deal Finalized with New Stadium Concessionaire

The French Football Federation (FFF) is set to sign an agreement with GL Events in the coming days, officially securing their return to the Stade de France. GL Events, based in Lyon and managed by Olivier Ginon, will manage the stadium for a 30-year period, though the stadium will remain state property.

Until recently, the FFF had not yet reached an agreement with the new concessionaire following a competitive tender process that concluded in 2025.

Improved Financial Terms for the FFF

The new agreement represents a significant financial improvement for the FFF. The previous contract stipulated a cost of 2 million euros for organizing four matches annually at the Stade de France. The new system is based on rent indexed to ticketing revenue.

This represents excellent news. There is an important point, it is obviously the significant improvement in economic conditions which will mean that where we were in a losing situation, we will achieve positive results when the French team participates in matches at the Stade de France. Philippe Diallo, President of the French Football Federation

Future Match Scheduling and Stadium Modernization

Between 2026 and the completion of planned renovations in 2030, the FFF will have the option to choose whether or not to play matches at the Stade de France. From 2030 onwards, the FFF will be required to host eight matches over two seasons at the venue.

A return of the French national team, led by Kylian Mbappé, is anticipated in October 2026 as part of the UEFA Nations League.

Stade de France: A Modernized Venue

GL Events has announced plans to invest approximately 120 million euros (approximately 140 million USD / 104 million GBP) in modernizing the Stade de France, with work scheduled to begin in 2027 without interrupting ongoing operations. The venue is also planned to host new event formats such as baseball, American football and e-sports.

The Stade de France, originally designed for the 1998 FIFA World Cup, boasts a capacity of 80,000 and has hosted over 550 major events and 35 million spectators.

Key Features of the Stade de France

• Modular stadium with up to 80,000 seats
• 12,000 sqm event space (exhibition halls, boxes, meeting rooms)
• 320-seat auditorium
• Panoramic restaurant with views of the pitch
• 2,000 sqm museum accessible for immersive tours or private hire
• Outdoor spaces available for specific events and installations