San Antonio Spurs legend Tony Parker said Tuesday he’s open to taking over as Lyon’s president once Jean-Michel Aulas retires from the role at the French football club.
“Why not? We have never discussed it,” Parker told ESPN’s Jonathan Johnson. “However, if it is true, if he sees me that way and asks me, I think it is a role that cannot be refused. It is an honor to be considered for something like this. I have many things to learn from him. We will see in four or five years.”
Aulas, 71, has suggested he’ll retire at 75 and raised the prospect that Parker could take his place, though he made it clear no formal discussions have happened, per Johnson
It is true that Tony has the profile to run a professional global sports operation,” Aulas said Saturday. “As well as the economic and media aspects that go with it. I feel that he has the necessary characteristics. As well as professional and human qualities, I have great affection for him and what he represents.”
Parker won four NBA championships with the Spurs before retiring in 2019 after spending a season with the Charlotte Hornets.
The 37-year-old former French international is the majority owner of ASVEL Basket, which competes in France’s LNB Pro A, and he serves as the club’s president. The team is based in Villeurbanne, a commune of Lyon.
Although Parker’s background is in basketball, he’s got key connections within the French football community, counting Thierry Henry among his best buddies.