Michele Kang
From Women’s Football to Top of OL
In a groundbreaking move on June 30, 2025, Michele Kang—already known for owning OL Lyonnes (Olympique Lyonnais Féminin)—was named President of Olympique Lyonnais (OL) and CEO of Eagle Football Group, replacing John Textor . This appointment makes her the first woman in French history to head a major men’s football club.
A Trailblazer in Women’s Soccer
- American business leader with roots in South Korea, Michele Kang founded Cognosante, a health-tech firm .
- In 2022, she became the first woman of color to own a U.S. professional soccer team, the Washington Spirit in the NWSL .
- In May 2023, Kang acquired a 52.9% stake in OL Lyonnes, launched Kynisca Sports International, and headed a new multi-club women’s football strategy, including teams like Washington Spirit and London City Lionesses .
Rebranding and Rising Profiles
Kang has steered bold changes at OL Lyonnes:
- Renamed the club to OL Lyonnes, complete with a new logo to forge an identity separate yet connected to the men’s side .
- Moved the women’s team to play full-time at Groupama Stadium, matching the men’s facility .
- Built a global women’s football network, investing in shared resources, data analytics, and player development across clubs .
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A Billionaire with Big Vision
- Kang is now among the 10–11 wealthiest women in sports, with a net worth around $1.2 billion per Forbes rankings .
- She’s given back to U.S. sports too donating $30 million to U.S. Soccer for women’s programs .
- Named a Sports Business Journal Power Player and served on the ECA board, Kang looks poised to shape global football, both men’s and women’s .
A Critical Moment for OL
OL Groupe is currently in financial trouble, with relegation to Ligue 2 announced by the DNCG due to debt .This makes Kang’s leadership even more vital as she steps in to appeal the decision and steer the club back to stability .
Final Thoughts: A New Era Begins at OL
Michele Kang is not just a figurehead she’s a strategic force driving innovation, growth, and equality in football. From US healthcare to launching a global women’s football empire, and now heading OL during a critical crisis, Kang is rewriting the rules. women are also respectable for everyone.
With her bold vision and business acumen, OL stands poised for a dramatic comeback and maybe even a redefinition of success in French football.