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Paris mayor Gregoire sets summer deadline to resolve PSG stadium dispute

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Newly elected Paris mayor Emmanuel Gregoire has set a firm deadline to resolve the long running dispute between the city and Paris Saint-Germain over the future of the Parc des Princes, aiming to reach a decision by the end of the summer. The announcement signals a renewed effort to break months of deadlock that has left uncertainty around the club’s long term home. Gregoire confirmed that negotiations will restart with urgency, as both sides attempt to find common ground on whether PSG will remain at their historic stadium or move elsewhere.

The disagreement has centered on ownership and redevelopment plans for the Parc des Princes, with PSG insisting that acquiring full ownership is essential for any major investment. The club believes expanding and modernizing the stadium is critical to sustaining its commercial growth and competitive ambitions. However, previous leadership under former mayor Anne Hidalgo had firmly rejected the idea of selling the stadium, effectively halting progress and prompting PSG to explore alternative sites outside Paris, including locations such as Massy and Poissy.

Gregoire has taken a more flexible stance, indicating he is open to revisiting the possibility of a sale under strict conditions. He revealed plans to convene a special session of the Paris council in mid April to relaunch formal discussions, emphasizing that any final decision will require broader political approval. The mayor acknowledged internal opposition, particularly from members of the city council who are against selling a major public asset, but stressed the importance of finding a balanced solution that protects both public interests and the club’s future.

To move negotiations forward, Gregoire outlined two potential pathways, including extending PSG’s current lease or negotiating a controlled sale of the stadium. Any sale, he suggested, would include safeguards such as heritage protections and possible buyback options to ensure long term public oversight. He also highlighted the emotional connection between the city and the club, stating that keeping PSG in Paris remains a priority. At the same time, he made clear that public funds would not be used to support redevelopment efforts for a professional football venue.

The situation carries significant implications for both PSG and the city of Paris, as the club continues to grow its global profile following recent sporting success. PSG currently hold a lease on the Parc des Princes until 2044, giving both sides time to negotiate but also increasing pressure to reach clarity. Gregoire confirmed he has already held discussions with club president Nasser Al-Khelaifi, signaling a willingness to rebuild dialogue and avoid a potential relocation that could reshape the club’s identity within the French capital.

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