Ligue 1: Giroud becomes the oldest player to reach 100 appearances in the top flight

Europe 18 April 2026 at 16:46

Nouya M'toama

News Editor

At 39 years and 6 months, Olivier Giroud continues to make history in French football. The striker has now become the oldest player to reach the symbolic milestone of 100 Ligue 1 matches in the past 75 seasons—a longevity record that further cements his remarkable career.

This landmark was reached when he came on in the 56th minute, replacing Makau. At first glance, it seemed like a routine substitution, but it was loaded with significance: this appearance officially marked his 100th match in the French top flight.

A longevity record at the highest level

With this latest appearance, Giroud surpasses the previous record held by Carlos Sosa, who reached the milestone at 38 years and 3 months. The French striker keeps pushing the boundaries of longevity at the highest level.

From his early days in France to his stints abroad, Olivier Giroud has built a career rooted in hard work, discipline, and clinical finishing. His return to Ligue 1 is a continuation of this journey, with every appearance offering the chance to write yet another chapter in his storied history.