Karim Benzema offered to play for Lyon for free, but PIF deal blocks return
Benzema became a free agent on 31 August 2026 but ambassadorial obligations to the Saudi league linked to the PIF may prevent him from playing for other clubs until 2030.
Karim Benzema told people close to him that he was willing to return to Lyon without a salary, offering to play for free as a gesture to the club where he began his professional career.
Why the move failed
Club officials in Lyon considered a comeback this summer but were ultimately unable to complete a transfer. Benzema terminated his contract with Al Hilal on 31 August 2026 and thus became a free agent, but an existing commitment tied to his role as an ambassador for the Saudi league complicates any move.
Sources say Benzema, 38, is contractually linked to the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), and that the terms of that agreement would prevent him from appearing in other national championships while the obligation stands.
If the ambassadorial obligation remains in force until 2030, Benzema would be 43 years old by then — a timeframe that increases the likelihood he may choose to retire rather than return to club football.
The possibility of a no-fee return to Lyon highlighted the player's personal attachment to his first big club, but the legal and commercial restrictions tied to the PIF agreement appear to be the decisive barrier for any immediate comeback.
Photo: BeFootball @_BeFootball (X)
