Naming: Grand Stade Lille Métropole to be named after Pierre Mauroy

The board of the LMCU (Lille Urban Community) has decided that the Grand Stade Lille Métropole, of which they are the owner, will be named after former Prime Minister Pierre Mauroy, who died on the 07/06/2013. The decision was made following a unanimous vote on the 21/06/2013.

Pierre Mauroy, French Prime Minister from 1981-1984 was mayor of Lille from 1973-2001 and president of the LMCU from 1989-2008.

The LMCU (Lille Urban Community), were hoping to find a commercial partner to name the stadium, but were unsuccessful in their search. The Partouche Group, who have been Lille's shirt sponsor since 1998 (apart from 2000-2003) were expected to sign a contract in Autumn 2012 worth €2.5m, but LMCU decided not to pursue the deal.

"The naming of the Grand Stade has got to be worth between €3m and €3.5m. We are also looking for a name that corresponds with our footballing values and the values of the region." said Martine Aubry, on the 03/05/2013.

The Grand Stade Lille Métropole hosted its first Ligue 1 fixture on the 17/08/2012 (Lille 1:1 Nancy, 2^nd fixture of 2012/13).

"If I'm not given a…