French National Team to Return to Stade de France Under New GL Events Contract

The French Football Federation (FFF) is set to sign a new contract with GL Events for the management of Stade de France, marking the return of the French national team to the iconic stadium in Saint-Denis. This long-term deal, announced by FFF President Philippe Diallo, will see GL Events take over stadium operations for 30 years, while ownership remains with the state.

Under the previous contract, the FFF incurred financial losses, paying a fixed fee of 2 million euros for just four matches annually. The new agreement is designed to be more financially viable, linking the rental fees to ticket sales and promising better economic conditions for the federation. Diallo expressed relief and optimism, stating the deal "will enable the FFF to move from loss-making to profitability when playing at Stade de France."

Although the French team has not played at Stade de France since March 2025, their return is anticipated on October 2, 2026, with a UEFA Nations League match against Italy. From 2026 until the stadium's renovations conclude in 2030, the FFF can choose whether to host matches there; however, post-renovations, they will be mandated to hold at least eight matches across two seasons, including two Coupe de France finals.

This pivotal contract ends years of legal disputes involving former concession holders Bouygues and Vinci and signals a new era for both the stadium's management and the national team’s fixtures at the venue.