A Legacy at Risk

Sochaux Football Club (FCSM), established by Peugeot in 1928 and later sold to a Chinese firm in 2015, now teeters on the edge of bankruptcy. This distressing news has deeply impacted the employees of Stellantis, the company that owns the Sochaux factory. Jean-Luc Ternet, the CFTC union delegate at the Stellantis factory, has called upon the parent company to provide financial support to the struggling club, in order to prevent its imminent collapse. The club, which was once predominantly owned by Peugeot for over 85 years, holds immense significance to the people of Sochaux and the Franche-Comté region.

A Painful Separation

The emotional bond between the factory and the club traces back to 2015, when Peugeot faced the brink of bankruptcy and had no choice but to sell the club to a Chinese company. Although a painful decision, it was deemed necessary. However, while the Stellantis group has achieved greater financial stability, with the Sochaux factory performing admirably, FC Sochaux finds itself in dire straits. It confronts bankruptcy and the looming threat of relegation to lower divisions, which would result in the loss of its professional status.

A Call for Support

In response to the club's financial crisis, the CFTC section of the Stellantis factory has urged the automotive manufacturer to reinvest in FCSM and contribute to its financial rescue. As the second largest union at the factory, the CFTC believes it is their duty to amplify the concerns of the Stellantis employees in the Franche-Comté region. The potential demise of the club would be a significant blow to the region, as FC Sochaux has played a pivotal role in identifying and representing the area on a national scale.

A Determined Effort

Although Stellantis has yet to indicate its intention to reinvest in the club, Romain Peugeot, the great-grandson of the founder of Peugeot and the driving force behind a takeover project, remains resolute in his mission to save the club. He has assembled a group of private investors to support his bid. However, the National Olympic and Sports Committee of France (CNOSF) has expressed a negative opinion regarding Sochaux's reinstatement in Ligue 2. Despite this setback, Peugeot plans to appeal to the administrative court to defend his takeover project.

A Community United

The employees of the Sochaux site harbor deep concerns about the future of the club. They hope that Stellantis will extend a helping hand to Romain Peugeot and consider providing a minority financial contribution to his takeover offer. The situation has left the employees feeling indignant, yet they also hold great respect for Peugeot's initiative. They are actively engaging in discussions and seeking solutions to support the team, reaching out to local artisans for potential assistance. The potential loss of the club has had a profound impact on the employees and the local community, as FC Sochaux has served as their cultural stronghold and a source of national recognition.

Words of the day

Stellantis : Stellantis

Bankruptcy : Faillite