The president of RC Lens, Joseph Oughourlian, publicly expressed his protest at the governance of the Ligue de Football Professionnel (LFP), aligning himself with the position of Frank McCourt, owner of the Olympique de Marseille. Relying on the discreet support of its presidents, including Vincent Labrune, Ughourlian denounces a failing system and a lack of evolution in the governing bodies. He points out that many clubs share this criticism and that a mobilization strategy is under way to bring about change. This firm position comes in a context of persistent difficulties related to television broadcasting rights, which have greatly impacted the club’s finances.

Ughourlian’s criticism also extends to Cyril Linette’s candidacy for the presidency of the LFP, which he considers to be fraught with bureaucratic obstacles and requiring ministerial intervention. It denounces an opaque and locked application process, which hinders innovation and the modernisation of bodies. Despite these difficulties, he defended the Ligue 1+ proprietary channel project, considering it essential to support this platform despite its initial economic difficulties. Ughourlian insists that it takes time for the chain to find its balance and that it is necessary to preserve the club’s identity.

Although it does not permanently exclude a sale of RC Lens, Joseph Oughourlian states that any sale must respect the club’s values and history, and that the future owner must demonstrate a strong financial capacity. This openness contrasts with its previous statements, but underlines its willingness to preserve the club’s sustainability in the face of current economic challenges. To this end, it relies on income diversification, notably through the development of training and the resale of players, as well as investment in the stadium. The ultimate goal is to ensure the financial stability of the club and make it attractive to future investors.