Montpellier, France – October 1, 2025 — A new chapter has begun for one of France’s most storied women’s football clubs. Crux Football, the women’s football incubator founded by former New Zealand captain and ex-FIFA executive Bex Smith, has completed its first major acquisition: Montpellier HSC Féminines.
The deal sees Crux take full ownership of the Division 1 Féminine side, which boasts two league titles, three Coupe de France trophies, and a proud tradition of producing French internationals such as Sakina Karchaoui, Sandie Toletti, and Maëlle Lakrar.
A First Step in a Bigger Vision
For Smith, who lifted a UEFA Women’s Champions League title during her playing career, the Montpellier project is the cornerstone of a bigger vision: building a multi-club platform designed specifically for women’s football.
“We are thrilled to announce Crux Football’s first acquisition, Montpellier HSC Féminines, a club I have admired and seen potential in for many years,” said Smith. “They have one of the best player development pathways in the world, and we look to strengthen and position the club for a future where women’s football is structured to thrive on its own, sustainably and at scale.”
Unlike many women’s sides still tied financially and structurally to their men’s counterparts, Montpellier Féminines will now operate as a purpose-built, standalone club. Crux Football will oversee all aspects—from player development and strategy to commercial partnerships and fan engagement.
A Club Anchored in Tradition, Looking to the Future
Paul Bouffard, the newly appointed president of MHSC Féminines, emphasised a vision of professionalism and ambition:
“MHSC Féminines must become a model of sustainability and ambition. Our strategy is anchored on four pillars: strong local roots, respect for heritage, athlete influence, and a new economic model. We want to inspire both on and off the pitch.”
Outgoing Montpellier president Laurent Nicollin, who oversaw the women’s section for 25 years, reflected on the handover:
“We are very proud to have helped professionalize the women’s team and write beautiful pages in French football history. As I hand over the reins, I do so with pride and affection. Long live the MHSC women’s team!”
Backed by Global Investors and Expertise
The acquisition is supported by a consortium of prominent investors, including:
- Cindy Holland (former Netflix VP, now Paramount executive) and Annie Imhoff, early investors in Angel City FC.
- Julie Foudy, two-time World Cup winner and ESPN analyst.
- Ted Knutson, CEO of StatsBomb and pioneer in football analytics.
- Lori Cashman, venture capital leader.
- Misha Sher, global sports marketing strategist.
This international backing reflects Crux’s ambition to create a network of European clubs sharing resources, infrastructure, and expertise, while keeping women’s football at the centre.
Players Welcome the Move
On the pitch, Montpellier captain Sonia Ouchene welcomed the deal:
“As professional players, we are very happy. This signing represents an evolution for women’s football in France. It will allow us to maintain our high standards and achieve the goals this club deserves.”
What It Means for Women’s Football
The acquisition represents more than just a transfer of ownership—it signals a cultural shift in how women’s football clubs are structured. Instead of being secondary to men’s teams, Montpellier Féminines will now serve as Crux Football’s flagship model, with its own dedicated infrastructure, commercial strategy, and player-first philosophy.
Jean-Michel Aulas, president of the Ligue Féminine de Football Professionnel, hailed the move as a milestone:
“The arrival of Crux Football fully aligns with our ambition for growth. This model ensures Montpellier remains competitive while maintaining the excellence of its academy.”
A Legacy Club Meets a New Era
Founded in 2001 under Louis Nicollin, Montpellier HSC Féminines has long been one of France’s most respected women’s teams—winning titles, competing in Europe, and developing stars who now shine on the international stage. Now, under Crux Football’s stewardship, the club is positioned to lead the next era of women’s football in France and beyond.
