FC Lorient President Loïc Féry Signals Intent to Transfer Shares to BKFC.

Roger Hampel

Image: FC Lorient

FC Lorient president Loïc Féry has publicly confirmed his intention to fold his personal stake in the club into the Black Knight Football Club (BKFC) group, a move that would make BKFC the sole shareholder of the Ligue 1 side. The statement was made in a detailed interview published on the club’s official website, where Féry reviewed the team’s first third of the season, the club’s 100-year anniversary, and the broader strategic direction of FC Lorient in a changing football landscape.

The interview — conducted by the club’s media department — marks the clearest indication yet of a structural shift in Lorient’s ownership model, and outlines the logic behind aligning the club fully with BKFC’s multi-club ecosystem led by investor Bill Foley.

Mid-Season Assessment: Tight Ligue 1, Missed Opportunities, but Confidence Remains FC Lorient

Reflecting on the first 12 matchdays of Ligue 1, Féry acknowledged that recent results have been below expectations. However, he emphasised that the team’s performances contain “many positive elements,” including game production, intensity and collective mindset. Lorient’s run of missed penalties — referenced by Féry as a “small curse now behind us” — contributed to narrow results in a league table where several clubs remain separated by only a few points.

He reiterated total confidence in the coaching staff and the squad, adding that selective reinforcements may be considered during the winter transfer window if needed.

A Strong Fan Base and a Centenary That Highlights the Club’s Identity

Féry underlined another key point: the high attendances at Le Moustoir, which he described as a strong indicator of community engagement. The 2025/26 season marks FC Lorient’s centenary, and the club has launched a dedicated programme celebrating past and present contributors — directors, players, coaches, staff, volunteers and fans.

According to Féry, the centenary is a “unique moment” that reaffirms the club’s identity and deep relationship with the city of Lorient. Several partners have joined the celebration, including Jean Floc’h, who will serve as the “Admiral” of the centenary programme.

Competitive Pressures and the Need for Structural Reinforcement

Turning to the club’s long-term strategy, Féry emphasised the increasingly competitive environment in French football — from reduced domestic TV revenues to major financial reinforcement across Ligue 1 clubs. He noted that since the end of 2022, the arrival of BKFC as a minority shareholder has coincided with major milestones:

• a top-10 Ligue 1 finish,

• immediate promotion after a single season in Ligue 2,

• and a successful return to the top flight despite Ligue 1 shrinking to 18 teams.

Against this backdrop, the president argued that FC Lorient must strengthen its position to remain competitive.

The Key Revelation: Féry Intends to Transfer His Shares to BKFC

The central announcement of the interview came when Féry stated plainly that he wishes to integrate his shareholding into the BKFC structure:

“I want us to be fully equipped to face this hypercompetitive environment. I therefore wish to take the next step in our partnership with the BKFC group by becoming one of its main shareholders behind majority owner Bill Foley, and by integrating my stake in FC Lorient into the BKFC group, which would then become the club’s sole shareholder.”

He noted that discussions with Bill Foley and the BKFC leadership are progressing positively.

If finalized, FC Lorient would join an international BKFC network backed by over $500 million in equity capital and composed of clubs with strong, distinct identities:AFC Bournemouth, Moreirense FC and FC Lorient.

Féry described the shift as a long-term guarantee of stability, competitiveness and alignment with an organisation that “has proven its ability to be competitive and to respect local identity.”

Impact on Lorient and the Region: Economic and Infrastructural Strengthening

The president also highlighted the local economic role of FC Lorient. The club drives job creation, matchday-related commerce and social activity throughout the territory. Maintaining top-flight status, supported by BKFC investment, would have “very positive short-, medium-, and long-term effects.”

He added that the ownership transition also aligns with plans to renovate and modernise the Stade du Moustoir, responding to growing demand from supporters.

Deal Not Yet Completed, but Close to Finalisation

Féry confirmed that the evolution is in its final phase but still requires procedural steps. However, he expressed confidence in completing the process quickly, citing strong alignment between parties who have collaborated closely for nearly three years. The interview concludes with Féry stating that he wanted to share his conviction with those close to the club, marking a decisive moment for FC Lorient’s future direction.