Lyon was rescued from the descent of Ligue 1 and at the same time released a blow to the hopes of Crystal Palace for the next season to compete in Europe. Lyon’s degradation at Ligue 2 was overturned on Wednesday by the French football federation after the club was successful.
DNCG, French football office, sanctioned by Lyon 24 June and condemned thembecause of financial problems. On Wednesday, Lyon presented a new plan in front of the committee, which was enough to convince them to overturn this decision and restore their Ligue 1 club status.
The main problem for Lyon was the debt of 541 million euros and a massively inflated law on wages without many cash flows. To get their place in the back of Ligue 1, Lyon needs a cash injection of EUR 100 million and another 100 for security for the next two years.
“Olympique Lyonnais welcomes today’s DNCG decision to keep the club in Ligue 1,” Lyon said in his statement.
“Olympique Lyonnais would like to thank the Appeal Committee for recognizing the ambition of the new management team of the club, which is determined to ensure that the club is seriously managed in the future.”
“The new leadership, supported by the commitment and determination of our shareholders and creditors, is extremely grateful for all the support received inside and outside the club, including its supporters, employees, players, partners and elected officials.”
“Today’s decision is the first step in restoring confidence in Olympique Lyonnais. Now we can focus on our sports goals and fully prepare for the next season.”
How will it be influenced by the Palace of Lyon’s decision
The palace and Lyon are owned by the Eagle football group, which means they cannot compete in the same European competition. This means that the palace, which qualified for the European League, will now have to play in the conference league.
Lyon finished sixth in the Ligue 1 ranking until the end of the 2024-25 season, which means they qualified directly to the league phase of the European League.
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Published on:
9 July 2025
