Four days after securing second place in the 2025-2026 Ligue 2 campaign with a crucial away win against Bastia, the Sarthois side received official confirmation of their promotion. The victory was confirmed by the Ligue de Football Professionnel’s disciplinary commission on Wednesday, May 13, ending weeks of uncertainty surrounding the outcome.

How the decisive match unfolded

The match’s conclusion remained unresolved after Saturday evening’s final whistle was never blown. Referee Ruddy Buquet had halted play following smoke bombs launched onto the pitch after Le Mans FC’s second goal in stoppage time. He subsequently announced the match would not resume, though no final whistle was ever sounded.

The disciplinary commission thus took responsibility for determining the match’s result and any sanctions against Bastia. The Corsican club faces a penalty of two enforced matches and one suspended match to be played behind closed doors at the Armand-Cesari stadium.

Historic return to the top flight

This promotion marks Le Mans FC’s return to League 1 after a 16-year absence from the elite French football division. The club’s president announced the news to 24,000 jubilant fans gathered at the Stade Marie Marvingt, where celebrations erupted following the long-awaited announcement.