In a surprising turn of events, the storied French club Saint-Etienne is currently in exclusive talks for a sale to the owner of the NBA’s Toronto Raptors and NHL’s Toronto Maple Leafs. Larry Tanenbaum’s Kilmer Group is on the verge of finalizing the full purchase of Saint-Etienne, a club that holds a significant place in the history of French football.
A Symbol of French Football
Larry Tanenbaum expressed his understanding of the importance of Saint-Etienne within its community and the broader French football landscape. Referring to the club as the “beating heart of a city and its region,” Tanenbaum acknowledges the rich history and tradition that Saint-Etienne represents in the sport.
Saint-Etienne boasts an impressive record, having been crowned champions of France ten times, with their last title dating back to 1981 during the era of French legend Michel Platini. The club’s 41,000-seat stadium also holds significant importance as one of the designated venues for the upcoming men’s and women’s soccer tournaments at the Paris Olympics.
The potential sale comes at a crucial juncture for Saint-Etienne as they strive to reclaim their former glory and secure a spot back in the top-tier Ligue 1. After facing relegation two years ago, the club has shown resilience by securing at least a third-place finish, guaranteeing them a place in the promotion playoffs bracket. The impending deal aims to pave the way for an ambitious future for the club under new ownership.
Kilmer Group’s Involvement
Larry Tanenbaum, the chairman and CEO of Kilmer Group, brings a wealth of experience from overseeing the operations of Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment, which includes the Raptors and Maple Leafs. The potential acquisition of Saint-Etienne further solidifies Kilmer’s presence in the sports industry, with reports suggesting the addition of a WNBA franchise in Toronto.
Leading the negotiations on behalf of Kilmer Group is Ivan Gazidis, the former CEO of Arsenal and Inter Milan. Gazidis’s expertise and background in managing top football clubs add another layer of credibility to the potential deal between Saint-Etienne and Kilmer Group.
The exclusive talks for the sale of Saint-Etienne to Larry Tanenbaum’s Kilmer Group mark a significant milestone in the club’s history. With a focus on ensuring a successful future for the club, the potential acquisition underlines the potential for a new chapter in Saint-Etienne’s storied legacy within French football.