Lyon Win Appeal, Avoid Relegation to Ligue 2

Olympique Lyon have won their appeal against administrative relegation and will remain in Ligue 1 for the upcoming season.

The French football financial watchdog, DNCG, had initially ruled that Lyon be demoted to Ligue 2 due to financial irregularities, including a mounting debt exceeding €500 million. However, following an appeal hearing on Wednesday in Paris, the club presented a revised financial recovery plan that satisfied the authorities.

As a result, Lyon’s place in Ligue 1 has been restored, and they are now cleared to participate in next season’s UEFA Europa League after finishing sixth in the previous campaign.

The decision, while a major relief for Lyon, could complicate matters for Crystal Palace. Due to UEFA’s multi-club ownership rules, Palace’s Europa League qualification is now under review since both clubs are linked to American businessman John Textor. UEFA may block both teams from competing in the same tournament unless ownership conflicts are resolved.

Textor is reportedly trying to sell his stake in Palace to comply with UEFA rules, and a final decision from the governing body is expected soon.

Lyon’s reinstatement ends weeks of uncertainty for the club and their fans, securing their top-flight status and preserving their European ambitions.