Ajaccio provisionally demoted to National as City Group given potential lifeline

06/28/2024 04:24 AM

The DNCG sanctions keep on coming. After LB Châteauroux and Chamois Niortais were demoted from National 1 to National 2, French football’s financial watchdog have now provisionally relegated AC Ajaccio from Ligue 2 to the National 1, France’s third tier. 

Ajaccio were in Ligue 1 just two seasons ago but they could find themselves in the third tier by the start of next season. The DNCG were unsatisfied with the budget presented to them during Thursday’s hearing, although the Corsican club, in a press release, have ensured that their 2024/25 budget does allow it to run at a professional level. 

Bordeaux safe… for now

Ajaccio have already announced that, just like Châteauroux and Niort, they will appeal to provisional demotion in the hope of competing in Ligue 2 next season. Should they fail in their appeal, City Group club ESTAC Troyes, who have suffered back-to-back relegations, will be given a lifeline and will return to France’s second division, rather than dropping down to the National 1. 

The jury is still out on Girondins de Bordeaux. The Ligue 2 club have a shortfall to make up, however, in their meeting with the DNCG, their case was deferred in order for talks with American investors to conclude. Those talks are reportedly now at an advanced stage. 

GFFN | Luke Entwistle