Girondins de Bordeaux: Passion, facts, priorities

In recent weeks there has been a proliferation of rumours, discussions and debates regarding the running of our club, with a strength of opinion which reflects just how passionate so many people feel about the Girondins de Bordeaux. But there is also too much false information circulating, in discussions and in print. We would therefore like to make clear a certain number of facts, in order to avoid unnecessary confusion. We would like to begin by making one thing very clear: the management team at the Girondins de Bordeaux, led by club president Frédéric Longuépée, is fully devoted to guaranteeing the sporting success of our club, and its long-term human and economic stability. Some particularly egregious rumours have been circulating regarding one of the club's major responsibilities: safety. Safety is a major preoccuption in contemporary society, and that include the safety of all of our players, employees, supporters and the average 24,000 fans who attend every home game at the Matmut Atlantique. Safety is also a major concern at the club's headquarters and training centre in Le Haillan, the heart of the Girondins' sporting and administrative operations. The regulations imposed by the relevant authorities and sporting federations are increasingly precise and demanding, requiring us to step up our management capacities. Overseeing the implementation of measures which effectively guarantee the safety of all concerned is a duty and a mission of the utmost importance. It is essential in order to allow our clubs to fulfil their sporting potential in optimal conditions, maintaining a secure and peaceful environment. In this crucial field, David Lafarge has done a remarkable job. Claims that the club has attempted to dismiss him are pure fiction, and an insult to David's professionalism. David Lafarge remains an essential part of the Girondins team. Our club has a long and storied history, with close connections to the city of Bordeaux, its region and its residents. It does not belong to any one person. We have the honour of carrying this tradition forward, and our legitimacy depends upon the commitment of our shareholders and the day-to-day dedication of a team determined to delivering sporting success and financial stability, a key requirement in order to ensure that the future of the Girondins matches our hopes and aspirations for the club. The current pandemic will have serious consequences for our sport, that much goes without saying. Supporters have every right to express their views, but it is unacceptable that a small minority should resort to lies and slander. In pursuing these obscure vendettas, the persons in question are endangering the club's future at a time when we all need to demonstrate our solidarity. The city of Bordeaux and the thousands of fans who turn out week after week to support our teams deserve better than this unedifying spectacle. The sporting and administrative future of our club is in safe hands, with a dedicated team working towards the goal of securing regular European qualification once again. Under the aegis of Frédéric Longuépée, the Girondins de Bordeaux are more committed than ever to playing a prominent role in the local and regional communities. A number of initiatives have already been launched successfully, and more will be announced before the new season begins. The whole club, our players, our teams and our management are fully committed to promoting the reputation of Bordeaux and the region. With all due respect to all concerned, and in the pursuit of this shared ambition, the time has come to rise above the manufactured controversies which do nothing but harm to our club. The people of Bordeaux want the Girondins to assume their rightful place as standard-bearers for this city. Let's rise to that challenge together, and put ourselves back on the path to sporting glory.