Stéphane Richard Appointed as New President of Olympique de Marseille
Olympique de Marseille has officially entered a new chapter, naming 64-year-traditional Stéphane Richard as the club’s new president on Friday, April 10, 2026. Richard is set to officially assume his duties at the start of July, bringing a wealth of corporate and political experience to one of France’s most storied football institutions.
The appointment follows a period of transition for the Phocéens. Richard succeeds Alban Juster, who served as interim president after Pablo Longoria was removed from the role in February 2026, ending a five-year tenure.
Owner Frank McCourt sought a leader who could blend high-level management experience with a deep understanding of the local environment. According to reports, McCourt emphasized the demand for a “strong president” and a “manager of stature” who possesses a firm grasp of the culture in both France and Marseille.
A Career Defined by High-Stakes Leadership
Stéphane Richard arrives at the Stade Vélodrome with an extensive professional pedigree. A graduate of both HEC and ENA, Richard previously served as the chief of staff for Christine Lagarde and Jean-Louis Borloo at the Ministry of Economy.
In the private sector, Richard is best known for his tenure as the Chairman and CEO of the telecommunications giant Orange from 2011 to 2022. His ties to the club are already established; it was during his leadership at Orange that the company secured the naming rights deal for the “Orange Vélodrome,” a contract that concludes this year.
Beyond his corporate achievements, Richard has long-standing connections to the city of Marseille. In a 2023 interview with Libération, he highlighted the attachment of CMA-CGM head Rodolphe Saadé to the city and the club, suggesting that Saadé might eventually acquire Olympique de Marseille.
Addressing Past Controversies
Even as Richard’s professional credentials are vast, his appointment also brings a reminder of past legal challenges. The incoming president was convicted of negligence in relation to the high-profile Tapie affair involving Crédit Lyonnais.
Despite this, the Marseille board viewed Richard’s profile as the ideal match for the club’s current needs. His arrival is expected to provide the stability and experienced leadership McCourt desires as the club prepares for the upcoming season.
