FC Girondins de Bordeaux (commonly known as Girondins de Bordeaux or simply Bordeaux) is one of France's most historic and storied football clubs, based in Bordeaux, in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region.
Founded on 1 October 1881 (originally as a multi-sport gymnastics and shooting club, with the professional football section dating to 1920), the club has a rich legacy but has faced severe financial and sporting decline in recent years
After strong performances in the 2000s and early 2010s (including the 2008–09 Ligue 1 title under Laurent Blanc), the club began a downward spiral due to ownership changes, heavy debts, and mismanagement.Relegated from Ligue 1 in 2021–22 after finishing bottom.
They spent two seasons in Ligue 2, narrowly missing promotion.
In 2024, the French financial watchdog (DNCG) administratively relegated them to Championnat National (third tier) due to insufficient financial guarantees.
On 25 July 2024, the club filed for bankruptcy protection, renounced its professional status (ending 87 years as a pro club), terminated all first-team player contracts, and closed the renowned youth academy to avoid harsher sanctions. This led to a further administrative drop to Championnat National 2 (fourth tier).
A continuation/restructuring plan was later validated by the court in 2025, significantly reducing debts (reports of cutting from around €90–94 million to €26 million) with cash injections and payroll controls, allowing the club to continue operations rather than full liquidation.
Their current s tatus as of April 2026, FC Girondins de Bordeaux competes in Championnat National 2 (fourth tier of French football), Group A (or B depending on the source grouping).
They are performing competitively, sitting in 2nd place in their group with strong results (e.g., around 15 wins, 4 draws, 6 losses in recent standings, goal difference +16).
Some might remember former Newcastle, Liverpool and England International Andy Carroll joined the club when they originally were relegated, citing that he just wanted to play football and it felt great not to be noticed.