Lyon is bracing for a pivotal week, one that extends far beyond the pitch. As Olympique Lyonnais prepares for a crucial Europa League round of 16 second leg against Celta Vigo on Thursday, club legend and current mayoral candidate Jean-Michel Aulas is attempting a political rally that could define his future. The timing, however, has raised eyebrows, with many questioning whether the event will draw support away from the vital European fixture.
Aulas, who steered Olympique Lyonnais for 35 years, transforming them into a dominant force in French football, remains deeply connected to the club despite stepping down as president in 2023. He’s now vying for the mayoralty of Lyon, a race that has become increasingly tight. The first round of voting saw Aulas narrowly trailing ecologist Grégory Doucet, with a difference of just 0.58 percentage points (36.78% to 37.36%).
The stakes are high on both fronts. Lyon’s Europa League campaign hangs in the balance after a 1-1 draw in the first leg against Celta Vigo. Domestically, the team has experienced a recent dip in form following a remarkable 13-match winning streak. Adding to the complexity, Aulas has scheduled a rally for his supporters on Thursday evening, coinciding with the Europa League match at Groupama Stadium. The rally is planned for Place Terreaux, a location steeped in Lyon football history as a traditional gathering spot for celebrating titles.
“We will hold a rally on Place Terreaux due to the fact that it is symbolic,” Aulas stated in a video released by Le Parisien. “Lyon that exults, Lyon that is happy, Lyon that is growing – that is the Lyon that wins on all fronts.” The choice of location is a deliberate nod to the club’s past successes and a call for a unified, winning spirit in the city.
Aulas’s Campaign Faces Headwinds
However, Aulas’s campaign isn’t without its challenges. He’s facing criticism for a campaign some describe as “frustrating” and “clumsy.” His decision to decline a second debate with Doucet, following a perceived underwhelming performance in the first, has also drawn scrutiny. The former OL president is attempting to recapture the momentum he once held, but the political landscape has shifted.
The potential consequences of a loss in the mayoral election are significant, not just for Aulas personally, but potentially for the football club as well. According to Sport.fr, a defeat could jeopardize the club’s access to municipal funding for the Groupama Stadium, its training facilities, and even transportation initiatives. Sponsorship deals, often attracted by Aulas’s prominent position, could also be at risk. Past controversies surrounding supporter groups could resurface, potentially damaging the club’s image as it seeks to rebuild in the Europa League.
The current ownership group, Eagle Football, which acquired a majority stake in the club in 2022, might view a change in political leadership as an opportunity. Free from Aulas’s long shadow, the American owners could potentially forge a new relationship with the city’s administration, focusing on infrastructure improvements and a renewed commitment to sporting success.
The timing of the rally, directly competing with a major European match, has sparked debate on social media. Many Lyonnais residents are questioning whether supporters will prioritize a political gathering over cheering on their team in a critical Europa League contest. This perceived misstep could be a sign of a campaign struggling to connect with voters.
Aulas’s political ambitions come at a delicate moment for Lyon. The club is navigating a challenging period on the pitch, and the mayoral election represents a significant turning point for the city’s future. The outcome of both contests will undoubtedly shape the landscape of Lyon for years to come.
Jean-Michel Aulas’s legacy in Lyon is undeniable. He transformed Olympique Lyonnais from a provincial club into a European powerhouse. But as he embarks on this new chapter in his career, he faces a formidable challenge. Whether he can successfully balance his political aspirations with the demands of a crucial Europa League tie remains to be seen.
The Europa League second leg against Celta Vigo kicks off at 18:45 CET (12:45 PM EST) on Thursday. Lyon will need a strong performance to advance to the quarter-finals. Simultaneously, Aulas will be hoping for a strong turnout at Place Terreaux as he attempts to rally support for his mayoral bid. The next few days will be crucial for both Olympique Lyonnais and Jean-Michel Aulas.
What do you think? Will Aulas’s rally distract from the Europa League match? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
