Nice President Denies PSG Subservience Claims, Affirms Independence
Nice President Jean-Pierre Rivère has denied accusations of subservience to Paris Saint-Germain and its president, Nasser Al-Khelaifi, describing the claims as unfounded. Speaking on the "After Foot" program via RMC radio, Rivère clarified that his decisions regarding French football and his club's stance within the French League (LFP) stem from complete independence. This statement was a direct response to journalist Daniel Riolo's assertions of Parisian influence over Nice's direction.
The Nice president also addressed the nature of his relationship with the capital club's president. Rivère stated that he maintains "very good relations with Nasser, as is the case with other club presidents," explaining that they exchange views on various topics, sometimes agreeing and sometimes disagreeing. He questioned why a good relationship should automatically imply Nice's subservience. In this context, he pointed out that the history of dealings between the two parties does not support these allegations, emphasizing that the club has only seen one transfer from Paris Saint-Germain to Nice during his 15 years as president.
Rivère further affirmed his complete rejection of claims suggesting he is under pressure from INEOS, Nice's owners, to make decisions contrary to the team's interests, stressing that he possesses full autonomy in managing the club's affairs. He also emphasized his independence, stating, "I am a mature man and I listen to whom I want." He noted that the club's administrative and sporting direction is guided by a specific vision that primarily serves Nice's interests, expressing surprise at attempts to question the integrity of his long-standing work.
These statements come at a time when Rivère has faced criticism due to Nice's alignment with Paris Saint-Germain on several issues within the French League, including his support for Vincent Labrune in the recent LFP presidential elections. These clarifications coincided with ongoing discussions about French League television broadcast rights. Rivère mentioned details of a quick meeting with top-flight club directors to vote on broadcast contracts, for which beIN Sports group has shown interest, given Nasser Al-Khelaifi's simultaneous leadership of the group and the Qatari Federation.
