Novak Djokovic has expanded his portfolio by investing in Le Mans FC, a French football club recently promoted to Ligue 2. The tennis legend’s involvement comes as part of a new group of shareholders, which notably includes ex-Formula One drivers Felipe Massa and Kevin Magnussen, adding to the sporting pedigree behind the club’s new ownership.
This formation of investors follows Le Mans’ return to the second tier of French football after five years away, marking a significant milestone in the club’s revival. Djokovic, known primarily for his tennis achievements, now joins a dynamic ownership group eager to support and transform the club’s ambitions.
New Investment Group Embraces Athletes and Business Leaders
The investment initiative behind Le Mans FC includes a Brazilian company, OutField, which is a key partner in the funding efforts. Alongside Djokovic and the former F1 drivers, the group features Georgios Frangulis, founder and CEO of the acai brand OakBerry, who is also the partner of Aryna Sabalenka, one of tennis’s current world number ones.
Le Mans president Thierry Gomez discussed the significance of this backing, explaining the club’s decade-long rebuilding project. Since taking charge in 2016, when Le Mans was playing in the lower amateur leagues and struggling with infrastructure limitations, Gomez has focused on steady growth rather than rapid promotion, aiming to build a sustainable foundation for the club’s future.
Gomez reflected on the club’s progress:
“For nine years, we have worked to structure the club, develop the training of our young players, grow our women’s section and bring together all the club’s stakeholders, both internal and external (players, coaches, employees, managers, volunteers, partners, supporters).”
This new financial backing, Gomez added, is vital in today’s evolving football environment, which is increasingly shaped by elite competition and the appearance of international investors. He emphasized the importance of adapting to survive and thrive while maintaining the club’s core values and ambitions.
“The particularity of this fund also lies in its contribution of high-level athletes. Thus, Novak Djokovic, Felipe Massa and Kevin Magnussen will be part of the adventure.”
—Thierry Gomez, Le Mans FC President
Novak Djokovic’s Athletic Career and Retirement Speculations
At 38 years old, Djokovic remains a formidable competitor on the tennis court despite recent retirement rumors. The Serbian star advanced to the semi-finals of Wimbledon last month but was defeated by Jannik Sinner, who went on to win the tournament. Djokovic also reached the semi-finals at this year’s French Open, again losing to Sinner.
After his loss at Roland Garros, Djokovic alluded to the possibility that the match could have been his last there. He expressed mixed emotions during the event, noting the strong support from the crowd.
“But if this was the farewell match of Roland Garros for me in my career, it was a wonderful one in terms of the atmosphere and what I got from the crowd.”
—Novak Djokovic, Tennis Player
When asked about his future in professional tennis, Djokovic showed uncertainty, recognizing the unpredictability of the coming year for his career. Nonetheless, he stated his desire to continue playing, while acknowledging he cannot guarantee being on court in twelve months’ time.
“Do I wish to play more? Yes, I do. But will I be able to play in 12 months’ time here again? I don’t know. That’s all I can say for the moment.”
—Novak Djokovic, Tennis Player
The History and Recent Journey of Le Mans FC
Le Mans FC is based in northwest France and was originally founded in 1985. The club enjoyed periods in France’s top division, Ligue 1, but has not competed at that level since 2010. Following a turbulent period marked by financial instability, Le Mans dropped to the fourth tier and had to reform at the amateur level.
Over recent years, the club has slowly climbed back up the football pyramid. Their return to Ligue 2 marks an important milestone in their ongoing recovery, although they were relegated briefly in 2020 and endured five years in the third division. Finishing as runners-up last season earned them promotion once more.
Le Mans FC, often nicknamed Les Mucistes, will open their Ligue 2 campaign with an away match against Guingamp on August 9, signaling the start of a fresh chapter fueled by new investment and ambition.
Investor Motivations and the Club’s Future Prospects
The involvement of Novak Djokovic and other elite athletes as shareholders not only enhances Le Mans FC’s profile but reflects the growing trend of cross-sport investments. This diverse ownership approach brings fresh perspectives, combining business acumen from figures like Georgios Frangulis with sporting experience from tennis and motorsport.
Together with president Thierry Gomez’s strategic planning, the club aims to expand its fanbase, improve infrastructure, and strengthen its competitive standing in Ligue 2 and beyond. The emphasis remains on sustainable growth, fostering local talent through youth training programs, and broadening the women’s football section.
As the football landscape continues to evolve, especially with economic challenges and increased competition, Le Mans FC’s efforts to attract new partners and supporters will be essential to maintaining their upward trajectory.
Djokovic’s entry into the investment group comes amidst his uncertain tennis future, potentially marking a significant transition towards broader sporting and business interests. The collaboration with former Formula One drivers Felipe Massa and Kevin Magnussen illustrates the unique blend of experience powering the club’s renewed ambitions.