The Paris Saint-Germain has officially claimed its 14th Ligue 1 championship after a dominant 2-0 victory at RC Lens, but the timing of the trophy presentation remains uncertain. While the Parisians have already secured the title, the final act of celebration—receiving the coveted trophy—may not follow as tradition dictates.
Typically, the Ligue 1 champions are honored in a grand ceremony at Parc des Princes after the last home game. However, this season’s timeline has complicated matters. The PSG’s final home match took place last weekend against Brest, leaving only one remaining fixture: the Paris derby at Jean-Bouin against Paris FC. Though technically an “away” game, the match is played just 50 meters from the club’s iconic stadium.
The Paris FC, celebrating their own survival in Ligue 1, has already planned festivities for their supporters post-match—a celebration that could clash with the PSG’s trophy presentation. The tension lies in the fact that the Ligue de Football Professionnel (LFP) governs the ceremony’s organization, and clubs are contractually obligated to host and participate in these events.
What does the Ligue 1 rulebook say?
According to LFP regulations under article 523-5, the league is responsible for organizing trophy ceremonies, notifying clubs in advance, and ensuring their participation. The rules explicitly state that clubs must welcome the festivities, engage in the proceedings, and adhere to the event’s protocols. There is no provision allowing clubs to refuse the ceremony’s timing or location.
This means the PSG’s trophy handover cannot be postponed indefinitely, even if the club’s schedule is packed—particularly with preparations for the upcoming Champions League final on May 30. The league faces a dilemma: impose a trophy presentation at Paris FC’s stadium, potentially disrupting their rivals’ plans, or arrange a separate ceremony at Parc des Princes after the season concludes.
A rare but not unprecedented situation
While PSG’s case is unique, it’s not without precedent. In 2012, Montpellier celebrated their title with a public ceremony in Place de la Comédie after winning their final match away. Similarly, Lille’s 2021 triumph saw the club host an intimate trophy handover at their training facility before parading through the city streets. Both instances occurred after the champions had already clinched the title on the road.
The Ligue 1’s flexibility in these scenarios suggests a solution could emerge, whether through an adapted ceremony or a delayed presentation. Yet, with the Paris FC match looming and the Champions League deadline pressing, the window for celebration remains tight. For now, PSG’s 14th title stands unchallenged—but the question of when and where they’ll hoist the trophy lingers.