The Red Bulls finally announced their long-rumored friendly against seven-time Ligue 1 winner, Olympique Lyonnais for July 16 at 8 pm at Red Bull Arena. There are plenty of links between the clubs, including Juninho and Peguy Luyindula having played for Lyon and Red Bulls Global Director Gerard Houllier having been the boss at the French power.
“We are proud to host Olympique Lyonnais at Red Bull Arena,” said Red Bulls General Manager Jérôme de Bontin. “Lyon has a storied history in France and has featured a number of top international players, including our own Juninho and Peguy Luyindula, while playing a distinct brand of soccer.
“They have been an example to many European clubs of how to build a solid soccer organization over many years, with a strong vision and goals that are reflected by their consistent success and seven-straight Lique 1 championships. We look forward to welcoming Lyon and expect a very entertaining match at Red Bull Arena that will please Red Bulls fans and soccer enthusiasts across the tri-state area.”
Season Ticket Holders will have this match included in their plans, with red and yellow card members having a pre-sale window to purchase extra tickets starting Monday at 10am and partial plan holders starting at 2pm. Tickets go on sale to the general public Tuesday at 10am.
“I have such a fantastic memory of winning the LFP Champions Trophy in July 2012 at Red Bull Arena, which perfectly launched our season. Since then, regularly speaking with Gérard Houllier, I knew we would soon be back and I immediately responded when it was proposed that we play against the New York Red Bulls this summer,” said Olympique Lyonnais President Jean-Michel Aulas.
“Through our international brand building program, being hosted by the Red Bulls proves to be a symbolic landmark. We are very proud to have been the New York Red Bulls’ choice for this exciting exhibition game next July.”
Lyon qualified for the 2013-14 UEFA Champions League, and won seven-straight Ligue 1 championships from 2001-08.