LFP Reschedules Key Ligue 1 Matches

The French Professional Football League (LFP) has officially postponed the Ligue 1 match between RC Lens and Paris Saint-Germain, as well as the Stade Brestois and RC Strasbourg fixture. The decision comes at the request of Paris Saint-Germain and RC Strasbourg, aiming to optimize their performance in upcoming European competitions.

The Lens-PSG match, originally scheduled for Matchday 29, has been rescheduled for Wednesday, May 13. This new date notably coincides with the day Didier Deschamps is expected to announce the France national team squad for the World Cup.

PSG’s Request Granted

The postponement was made to allow PSG to focus on their Champions League quarter-final ties. RC Strasbourg’s match against Brest was also postponed for similar reasons, related to their participation in the Conference League quarter-finals.

The strategic objective is clear: to protect France’s fifth place in the UEFA coefficient rankings. Holding onto that position is vital, as it guarantees four spots in the new Champions League in the coming seasons.

LFP Official Statement

Reaction from RC Lens

RC Lens expressed their disagreement with the LFP’s decision, stating they would take note of this with responsibility, reaffirms its determination to pursue its sporting objectives, and specifies that the ticketing arrangements will be communicated individually by email to each supporter.

Political Fallout: Bertrand Criticizes the Decision

Xavier Bertrand, President of the Hauts-de-France region, strongly criticized the LFP’s decision, stating “RC Lens occupies 2nd place in Ligue 1, one point behind the Parisian leader. This shock is now the most important match of the season in the league for both clubs… Our championship deserved better. Football deserved better.”

LFP Board Vote and Participation

The LFP board of directors unanimously approved the postponements. During the meeting, PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaïfi, Victoriano Melero, general director of PSG, and Marc Keller, president of Strasbourg, recused themselves from the vote.

Potential Rescheduling for Lens

The LFP has proposed that RC Lens bring forward their match against Nantes to May 8, should PSG reach the Champions League semi-finals. This aims to balance domestic competition with the European ambitions of French clubs.