PSG leaving Parc des Princes could trigger historic return for Ligue 1 rivals

Paris FC could make a sensational return to the Parc des Princes if Paris Saint-Germain decide to leave their historic home, with the possibility raised by the Ligue 1 club's former president, Pierre Ferracci.

The two Parisian sides have a shared history dating back to 1970, when Paris FC merged with Stade Saint-Germain to form Paris Saint-Germain. 

They separated in 1972, with Paris FC retaining its place in the top flight and moving into the Parc des Princes before PSG eventually established themselves at the stadium in 1974. 

Now, more than five decades after their split, the possibility of PSG relocating has reopened an intriguing prospect for their neighbours, who currently play at Stade Jean-Bouin, just across the road from the Parc.

Paris FC keep door open to Parc des Princes return

Ferracci, who recently handed over the presidency to Antoine Arnault after 20 years in charge, discussed the possibility of returning to the Parc des Princes during an interview with RMC Sport.

The 74-year-old stressed that Paris FC are currently happy at their 20,000-capacity home, but admitted that a PSG departure could change the situation.

“For now, we are doing very well at Jean-Bouin; everything is running smoothly, and we have had full houses at many matches.”

However, when asked about PSG potentially leaving their home, Ferracci suggested Paris FC would be interested in moving back across the road.

“If PSG were to leave the Parc – and I don't believe Nasser (Al-Khelaifi) would go in that direction – well, we would simply move across the street. In my opinion, it is the most beautiful stadium in France, alongside the Stade Velodrome. That is where the history of Paris FC began; we must not forget that.” 

The comments offer an interesting possibility for Paris FC, although there is no agreement or formal relocation plan in place. Ferracci also acknowledged that finding a long-term stadium solution will be one of the challenges facing Arnault.

PSG weighing up three options for future stadium

PSG are currently assessing three possibilities for their long-term home: remaining at the Parc des Princes and expanding it, purchasing the existing ground from Paris City Hall, or building a new stadium in Massy or Poissy.

The Parc currently holds approximately 48,000 spectators, but an expansion towards 70,000 has been examined. However, the stadium's location and structural limitations present considerable challenges, while a new venue in Massy or Poissy could offer greater scope for development.

PSG have not made a final decision, with the club continuing to assess the three options and aiming to identify a preferred location before the end of 2026. 

If PSG choose to leave, the Parc could become available to Paris FC, although any move would depend on negotiations over the stadium's ownership and operating arrangements.

FGG Says: A remarkable full-circle moment for Paris FC

A return to the Parc des Princes would be particularly significant given Paris FC's origins and the role the stadium played in the club's early history.

The prospect is not yet a concrete plan, but Ferracci's comments show that the possibility is being taken seriously enough to discuss publicly.

For now, Paris FC are established at Jean-Bouin, while PSG remain undecided about their future. However, if the European champions eventually move away, their neighbours could have an opportunity to return to a ground that once belonged to their story.