Châteauroux and Niort demoted to National 2 by DNCG

Chamois Niortais and LB Châteauroux have been relegated to the National 2, France’s fourth tier, after failing to pass their budget through the DNCG, French football’s financial watchdog.

Last season, Niort finished third in the National 1, just one point behind second-placed Martigues, whilst Châteauroux finished comfortably mid-table, achieving a 12th-place finish that they believed would seal their place in France’s third tier for another season, however, not so.

The DNCG confirmed on Wednesday that both clubs would be demoted to the National 2 next season. Both clubs will contest the decision from the watchdog. Châteauroux stated that they believed they had “presented all of the financial guarantees to balance the books next season.” They, like Niort, will have to prove convincing if they are to remain in the National 1 next season.

Martigues in the waiting room

There remains uncertainty regarding FC Martigues’ situation. The Marseille-based club were promoted to Ligue 2 last season and the DNCG has afforded them extra time in order to allow the club to provide additional elements in order to validate their promotion.

Should their promotion be ratified, Martigues will play at Olympique de Marseille’s Vélodrome until the end of 2024, as the club awaits approval of its own stadium, the Turcan.

GFFN | Luke Entwistle