Aulas Champions Football in Lyon Campaign
Jean-Michel Aulas, a pivotal figure in Lyon’s football history, has unveiled an ambitious project for the La Duchère district. This initiative aims to develop a multi-purpose venue capable of hosting 10,000 to 12,000 spectators. It will also include leisure facilities, office spaces, and improved tram access.
Aulas Champions Football in Lyon Campaign
During a recent site visit, Aulas emphasized the project’s potential to enhance local creativity and employment. He referenced the successful Olympique Lyonnais stadium in Décines-Meyzieu, which he described as one of his most significant achievements during his tenure as OL president from 1987 to 2023.
The proposed La Duchère stadium could significantly benefit the local club, Lyon-La Duchère, and host matches from the newly established third professional division. Aulas, now 76 years old, remains the vice-president of the Fédération Française de Football (FFF) and president of the Ligue Féminine de Football Professionnel (LFFP).
Support from Football Legends
Aulas’s campaign has earned backing from influential figures, including former French international players Karim Benzema and Bafétimbi Gomis. Benzema, a Ballon d’Or winner and OL alum, expressed his belief that Aulas is the right candidate for mayor. He stated, “He’s meant to be mayor of Lyon.”
- Karim Benzema: Played for OL until 2009 before joining Real Madrid.
- Bafétimbi Gomis: A former OL player who voiced his support through social media.
These endorsements resonate with the youth of La Duchère, many of whom recognize Aulas’s contributions to elevating OL from the second division to national champions from 2002 to 2008. Young residents expressed enthusiasm about Aulas’s candidacy, hoping it brings positive changes to their neighborhood.
Community Impact
Local youths, like Mahrez and Asirem, voiced their support, influenced by football figures’ endorsements. Mahrez, 20, eagerly anticipates voting for Aulas in the upcoming election, while Asirem, 17, acknowledges the impact of these endorsements on his peers.
As the campaign unfolds, Aulas aims to leverage his football legacy to galvanize community support in Lyon, particularly in La Duchère, fostering a new era of civic engagement and urban development.
