MARSEILLE, France – The Olympique de Marseille women’s team is poised to develop history this Saturday, March 28, 2026, as they play their first-ever match at the iconic Stade Vélodrome. The highly anticipated Arkema Première Ligue fixture against Montpellier HSC is drawing an expected crowd of over 50,000, potentially setting a new attendance record for a women’s club match in France. This landmark event underscores the growing momentum and visibility of women’s football in the country.
The atmosphere surrounding the match is already building, with over 49,000 tickets reserved as of Friday evening, according to reports. While some ticket holders may not attend, organizers have confirmed that ticket sales will remain open until kickoff, anticipating a spectacular turnout. The free ticket policy has undoubtedly contributed to the overwhelming demand, offering accessibility to a broad range of fans eager to witness this historic occasion.
This isn’t just a significant moment for the OM Féminin; it’s a watershed event for the entire league. Several other stadiums across France – including the Beaujoire in Nantes and Geoffroy-Guichard in Saint-Étienne – will host matches as part of the 19th journée of the Première Ligue féminine this weekend, but Marseille’s event is expected to shatter previous attendance records. Currently, the highest attendance for a women’s club championship match in France stands at 30,661 (Lyon-PSG in 2019), while a Champions League match between PSG and Lyon in 2022 drew 43,254 spectators. Saturday’s match at the Vélodrome is poised to surpass both figures.
For Marseille captain Tess Laplacette, the opportunity to play in front of such a massive crowd is a dream come true. “For me, it’s a dream of a child,” she said. “If someone had told me this when I was eight years old, I wouldn’t have believed it.” Laplacette, a product of the OM academy, is accustomed to playing before smaller crowds at the Stade Francis-Turcan in Martigues, making this occasion all the more special. She emphasized the significance of the moment, acknowledging the rapid growth of the club and the excitement surrounding the match.
The magnitude of the event isn’t lost on the coaching staff either. Head coach Corinne Diacre and her team have been preparing for the unique atmosphere of the Vélodrome by simulating the stadium’s sound system during training sessions. “Yes, it’s true. We put sound in their ears for an hour and a quarter. We’re trying to supply them some keys, but it will be different tomorrow,” Diacre explained with a smile. The intention is to help the players acclimate to the intensity and energy of a packed stadium, ensuring they remain focused and composed during the match.
Diacre likewise acknowledged the challenge of maintaining composure amidst the excitement. “I know they’ve played the match 15 or 20 times in their heads already. We can’t just switch off the brain,” she stated, noting that 80% of her squad were playing in the second division just months ago. She views the match as a crucial stepping stone for the “Les Marseillaises” project, a chance to build momentum and solidify their position in the top flight.
Stefano Petruzzo, the Italian-Argentine head of the OM women’s section, described the event as a “historic moment.” “Our project is to be an engine for women’s football in France, starting of course with our home,” he said. “This match is the most visible evidence of that. But we also do a lot of work with partner clubs and schools… This is a chance to unite everyone for a historic match.” Petruzzo expressed confidence in the city and the club’s ability to deliver, noting the overwhelming response to the event.
The club is already looking ahead to making this a recurring event. “We want to establish a regular fixture at the Vélodrome each season. We want to do it again and again,” Petruzzo promised, signaling a long-term commitment to showcasing women’s football at one of France’s most iconic venues.
Founded in 1899, Olympique de Marseille is one of France’s most storied football clubs. The men’s team, known as OM, competes in Ligue 1 and has won ten league titles, ten Coupe de France trophies, and three Coupe de la Ligue titles. The Stade Vélodrome, with a capacity of 67,394, has been the club’s home since 1937. This weekend’s match represents a significant step forward in recognizing and celebrating the achievements of the women’s team, bringing them into the heart of the club’s rich history and passionate fanbase.
The match against Montpellier is particularly critical for Marseille as they continue to establish themselves in the top tier of French women’s football. The team was promoted to the Première Ligue this season and is still working to secure their place in the league. A strong performance and a supportive home crowd could provide the boost they need to achieve their goals.
Following Saturday’s historic match, OM Féminin will continue their league campaign with upcoming fixtures to be announced. Fans can stay updated on the team’s progress and schedule through the official Olympique de Marseille website ([www.om.fr](http://www.om.fr)).
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