PSG Forced To Move Ligue 1 Opener After Heatwave Ruins Parc Des Princes Pitch

According to Ireporter Online, PSG were originally scheduled to begin their Ligue 1 title defence at home on Sunday. However, the Ligue de Football Professionnel (LFP) has reversed the fixture following an inspection of the pitch.

Rennes will now host the defending champions in Brittany, while the corresponding fixture in Paris will be played later in the season.

The decision was taken after officials determined that the condition of the Parc des Princes surface could pose a risk to the players. The LFP said the pitch was not suitable to host the game under acceptable conditions and raised concerns over “the safety and physical integrity of the players.”

PSG acknowledged the unusual circumstances surrounding the decision and announced plans to completely replace the pitch ahead of their next home league fixture against Monaco on September 4.

The disruption follows an extreme period of hot weather across France. Paris recorded temperatures close to 41°C on June 24, contributing to significant damage to football pitches and other outdoor facilities.

PSG said the situation was exceptional and expressed regret over the inconvenience caused by the fixture change.

The heatwave has also affected football elsewhere in Europe, with Spanish club Celta Vigo recently forced to postpone a La Liga fixture after fungal damage affected the pitch at the Estadio de Balaídos.

The French champions will therefore begin their latest title defence away from home as preparations continue to restore the Parc des Princes surface.