Crystal Palace could yet secure a shock return to Europe after Lyon were officially relegated to Ligue 2, opening the door for the Eagles to take their Europa League spot.
Lyon had qualified for the Europa League by finishing sixth in Ligue 1 last season, but their place is now in serious jeopardy after French football’s financial watchdog (DNCG) upheld a ruling to demote them due to major financial irregularities.
The implications of this ruling may hand Crystal Palace a golden ticket back into European competition — provided Lyon’s appeal fails and the UEFA multi-club ownership barrier is resolved.
What’s the Lyon Ruling and Why It Matters to Palace
The decision, announced by the LFP on Tuesday, follows Lyon’s failure to convince DNCG auditors that their financial situation had stabilised. Despite player sales in January and this summer — including Rayan Cherki’s move to Manchester City — the club remains burdened by debt.
“There’s no chance we’ll be relegated,” said Lyon president John Textor in November. — John Textor
That confidence has now unravelled. Lyon’s Europa League qualification could be voided, with UEFA expected to reassign the slot.
Palace’s Ownership Puzzle: A UEFA Grey Area
Crystal Palace’s European spot had been in doubt due to UEFA’s multi-club ownership rules. Eagle Football Holdings — which owns 43% of Palace — is also the majority shareholder at Lyon, creating a direct conflict under UEFA competition regulations.
Textor is currently selling his Palace shares to New York Jets owner Woody Johnson, a deal awaiting Premier League ratification. Should it go through in time, Palace’s path to Europe may be cleared entirely.
| Club | 2024/25 League Finish | Europa League Status |
|---|---|---|
| Lyon | 6th (Ligue 1) | Disqualified (pending appeal) |
| Crystal Palace | 10th (Premier League) | Eligible if Lyon removed |
Analyst Verdict
This could be Palace’s biggest off-pitch win in years. Textor’s misfortunes may inadvertently hand Oliver Glasner’s side their first European campaign since 1998. All eyes now turn to UEFA and the Premier League’s handling of Johnson’s ownership clearance.
Key Insights
- Lyon’s Ligue 1 finish could be voided due to financial relegation
- Crystal Palace could inherit their Europa League spot
- Palace’s UEFA eligibility hinges on ownership clearance
- Lyon have already lost multiple key players, including Rayan Cherki
- UEFA likely to intervene if appeal fails
What’s Next?
UEFA will review Lyon’s European license, while the Premier League must ratify Johnson’s takeover. If both align, Palace’s Europa League dream is alive and well.
Could Crystal Palace sneak into Europe through the back door?
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