Court Confirms GL Events as New Stade de France Manager After Vinci-Bouygues Appeal Denied
The court's rejection of Vinci-Bouygues' appeal confirms GL Events' management contract for Stade de France.
Key Points
- • Montreuil court denies Vinci-Bouygues' appeal regarding Stade de France management.
- • GL Events signs a 30-year contract to manage Stade de France.
- • Court finds government followed all necessary procedures in the concession process.
- • GL Events prepares for events starting August 2025.
In a significant legal ruling, the administrative court in Montreuil has denied Vinci-Bouygues' appeal against the French government's decision to award the management contract for Stade de France to GL Events. This decision paves the way for GL Events to formally commence management under a 30-year contract, as confirmed by court statements on June 12, 2025.
The court's ruling concluded that the French government adhered to its obligations regarding publicity and competitive bidding during the concession award process. Previously, this was upheld by the Council of State, which eliminated concerns about procedural failures. Vinci-Bouygues, which has managed the stadium since its opening in 1995, had raised objections concerning new financial clauses included in GL Events' proposals, but the court found these did not adversely impact the integrity of the overall contract.
GL Events expressed appreciation for the trust bestowed upon them and is currently orchestrating a smooth transition in management. The new operators are gearing up for high-profile events, including concerts by AC/DC planned for August 9 and 13, 2025, at the iconic venue. The entire judicial process stretched over two years, culminating in the government's contract award to GL Events, which was made official in early May 2025. Vinci-Bouygues now faces the challenge of closing its long-standing chapter with Stade de France following the court's decisive ruling.