Marseille

Football isn’t just a sport in France, it’s an emotion. Among the many clubs that have graced Ligue 1, Olympique de Marseille (OM) stands out. Established in 1899, OM has seen a historic and rich journey, becoming a symbol of the city’s indomitable spirit and passion.

The club has graced Ligue 1, the pinnacle of French football, since the inception of the league in 1932. The club’s glorious tenure in Ligue 1 is marked by ten titles, making them one of the most successful in French football. Moreover, OM has the distinction of being the first – and until now, the only – French club to win the UEFA Champions League, a feat they achieved in 1993.

Icons of Olympique de Marseille

Olympique de Marseille’s remarkable history in Ligue 1 is replete with a pantheon of great players. Football legends like Jean-Pierre Papin, the club’s all-time leading scorer, and Didier Deschamps, who guided the team to their 1993 Champions League victory, have donned the white and blue jersey.

Recent years have also seen the emergence of stars like Dimitri Payet, whose electrifying performances have captivated audiences worldwide. These players, among others, have left an indelible mark on the club’s history, contributing to its popularity and success.

The Rivalries that Fuel the Passion

French football thrives on its intense rivalries, and OM is at the heart of some of the most heated ones. The most renowned rivalry, known as “Le Classique,” is with Paris Saint-Germain. The fixtures between these two giants are always fiercely contested and garner attention from football fans globally.

Another intense rivalry exists with Olympique Lyonnais, the competitive encounters known as “Choc des Olympiques.” The matches are emblematic of a sporting and cultural clash that adds another dimension to French football.

Outside the realm of Ligue 1, OM has an international rivalry with Italian club AC Milan. This rivalry stems from numerous competitive clashes in the Champions League, creating an engaging cross-border narrative that transcends the usual scope of league football.

Orange Vélodrome: A Theatre of Dreams

As the home ground of Olympique de Marseille, the Orange Vélodrome is an integral part of the club’s identity. It is the second-largest football stadium in France and is famous for its unique architecture and passionate fans.

The stadium is divided into four main areas – Jean Bouin, Ganay, Virage Nord, and Virage Sud. Each offers a unique viewing experience. The Virage ends are where the most passionate supporters reside, often providing an electric atmosphere, while the Jean Bouin and Ganay stands offer a more relaxed, family-oriented experience. As of 2023, ticket prices vary from €35 in the Virage ends to around €70-€110 in the Jean Bouin and Ganay stands.

Visitors should also consider the stadium’s guided tours, where they can explore the changing rooms, and the tunnel, and even step onto the pitch’s sidelines. These tours offer a fantastic behind-the-scenes insight into the world of Olympique de Marseille.

Olympique de Marseille is more than a football club. It’s a symbol of the city’s resilience, a beacon of hope and joy for its people, and a source of thrilling football for fans worldwide. Whether it’s their historical significance in Ligue 1, the revered players who have taken the field, the rivalries that fuel the passion, or the magical experience of watching a match at the Orange Vélodrome, OM truly embodies the spirit of football.

Filling in the Rest

• European Recognition: Aside from their 1993 Champions League victory, Olympique de Marseille also reached the final of the UEFA Europa League twice, in 1999 and 2018, showcasing their consistent performances on the European stage.
• Unique Nickname: The club is commonly referred to as “Les Phocéens,” a reference to the ancient Greek founders of the city of Marseille, the Phocaeans.
• Prominent Managers: Not only have great players graced the club, but Olympique de Marseille also had renowned managers. Marcelo Bielsa, known as ‘El Loco’, and Didier Deschamps, who won the FIFA World Cup as the French National team coach in 2018, have both managed the team.
• Famous Supporters: The club has a host of famous supporters, including French rapper Jul and American actor Will Smith. Their support underscores the global appeal of the club.
• Charitable Endeavors: Olympique de Marseille is actively involved in charity work through its OM Foundation. The Foundation’s activities range from educational programs to healthcare initiatives, reflecting the club’s dedication to societal betterment.
• Cultural Impact: The club has influenced French culture, particularly music. The 1990s band IAM, famous for their song ‘Je danse le Mia,’ were big OM fans and often incorporated the team into their lyrics.
• Record Signings: The club’s record signing is the Argentine striker, Dario Benedetto, who was signed from Boca Juniors in 2019. This move demonstrated the club’s commitment to securing top talents to compete at the highest level.