Crystal Palace’s European dream takes new twist after Lyon relegated over financial troubles
Why French giants Lyon have been relegated from Ligue 1
- French football club Lyon has been relegated to Ligue 2 by the DNCG, the sport's financial watchdog, due to unresolved financial difficulties.
- The decision, announced by the French Football League (LFP), upholds a provisional relegation issued last November, despite Lyon's recent player sales.
- Lyon's president, John Textor, who is also selling his shares in Premier League club Crystal Palace, had expressed confidence that the club's financial position was resolved.
- Lyon, a seven-time French champion and recent Champions League semi-finalist, plans to immediately appeal the decision, citing sufficient cash liquidity and shareholder investments.
- While Lyon's relegation itself does not directly impact Crystal Palace's potential Europa League spot, the situation highlights the financial scrutiny in French football.