Frequently Asked Questions
The most-asked questions about Olympique Lyonnais.
What is Olympique Lyonnais?
Olympique Lyonnais is a professional football club based in Lyon, France, known for its dominant era in the early 2000s and passionate fanbase. The team currently competes in Ligue 1, the top tier of French football, playing their home matches at the Groupama Stadium.
Why are they called 'Les Gones'?
'Les Gones' is a nickname derived from the Lyonnais dialect meaning 'the kids,' reflecting the club's youthful identity and local roots. It serves as a term of endearment used by supporters to describe both the players and the fans themselves.
Who are the most important figures in the club's history?
Jean-Michel Aulas is the long-serving president who oversaw the club's golden era, while coaches like Gérard Houllier and Alain Perrin were instrumental in winning multiple league titles. Legendary players such as Thierry Henry, Zinedine Zidane (briefly), and Karim Benzema also left an indelible mark on the team.
What is the club's biggest achievement?
Lyon holds the record for the most consecutive French league championships, having won seven titles in a row from 2001 to 2008. This unprecedented streak established them as one of the most successful clubs in modern European football history.
Where does the team play their home games?
The club plays its home matches at the Groupama Stadium, located in Décines-Charpieu just north of Lyon's city center. This modern venue replaced the historic Parc Olympique Lyonnais as their primary ground starting in 2016.
What is the rivalry with Saint-Étienne called?
The fierce competition between Lyon and AS Saint-Étienne is known as 'Le Derby Rhône-Alpes,' often cited as one of the most intense rivalries in French football. Matches between these two clubs are characterized by high stakes, passionate atmospheres, and deep historical significance.
How did the women's team perform recently?
The Olympique Lyonnais Féminin squad is widely considered the best women's football club in the world, having won numerous French leagues and multiple UEFA Women's Champions League titles. Their consistent dominance has set a global standard for women's professional football.
What are the club's traditional colors?
The team wears iconic red and white vertical stripes on their home kits, complemented by blue shorts and socks to represent the city of Lyon's flag. These colors have remained largely unchanged throughout the club's history, symbolizing its identity.
When was the club founded?
Olympique Lyonnais was established in 1950 following a merger between two local teams, FC Lyon and AS Lione. This unification created the foundation for what would eventually become one of France's most prominent sporting institutions.
Where can I find detailed stats and history?
This unofficial fan encyclopedia provides comprehensive player profiles, match archives, and historical timelines specifically curated by supporters for enthusiasts. It serves as a central hub to explore every aspect of the club beyond standard news headlines.