Washington Spirit majority owner Michele Kang attended the Women’s French Cup final in Orléans, France, on Saturday amid reports that she’s slated to take over Olympique Lyonnais women’s team, which won its 10th Coupe de France after beating Paris Saint-Germain F.C. 2-1. Here’s what you need to know:
- Kang was captured in photos circulated online that appeared to show her in the stands near Jean-Michel Aulas, who stepped down this week as Lyon president after more than 30 years at the helm of the club.
- The Spirit’s owner was also seen on the match broadcast after Lyon’s win wearing a medal and hoisting the trophy with the team, according to photos shared on social media.
- Last month, Lyon denied reports that Kang was set to acquire a majority stake in their women’s side. It was previously reported that she had reached an agreement with new team owner John Textor via his company Eagle Football.
- The Spirit did not respond to a request for comment from The Athletic on Kang’s appearance at the final.
Backstory
A prior report from French newspaper L’Equipe suggested that Kang — the owner and CEO of health information technology company Cognosante — pledged to cover Lyon Women’s annual deficit of €12 million, which translates to more than $13 million, and…
