Controversy Over Scheduling of Bayeux vs. Marseille Coupe de France Match Explained

The upcoming Coupe de France match between amateur club FC Bayeux and Ligue 1 powerhouse Olympique de Marseille (OM) has generated controversy due to its scheduling on a weekday, January 12, rather than a weekend. This change was necessary to accommodate the Trophée des Champions final between Paris Saint-Germain and Marseille, set for January 8 in Kuwait.

Luis Ferreira Pavesi, president of FC Bayeux, remains optimistic despite the shift, stating to Orange Sports that "No, the date will not spoil the celebration." He recognized challenges such as players needing time off work but highlighted the support from employers. The match will be held at Stade Michel-d'Ornano, a venue with a 21,000 capacity—six times larger than Bayeux’s regular stadium—an opportunity Bayeux’s president welcomes to manage event costs and host a full crowd.

Bein Sports has also been criticized on social media for the match’s scheduling, initially slated for January 13 at 21:10. Florent Houzot, Bein Sports’ director of programs, clarified in an interview with L’Équipe that the network is not responsible for scheduling the matches. He explained that the French Football Federation (FFF) informed all clubs of the dates in advance and attributed the scheduling complexities primarily to accommodating the Trophée des Champions final.

Christophe Drouvroy, FFF’s director of national competitions, acknowledged the challenges but emphasized that communication regarding scheduling was clear and transparent to all participating clubs.

This scheduling adjustment highlights the logistical complexities in organizing national football tournaments around marquee events. Despite criticisms, both Bayeux’s president and Bein Sports stress that the professional and amateur clubs were properly informed and that the match will remain a significant occasion for Bayeux at a prestigious venue.