French football giants Olympique Lyonnais have been relegated from Ligue 1 due to overwhelming financial issues, with their debt reportedly exceeding €500 million.
The decision was made after Lyon appeared before the National Management Control Directorate (DNCG), the body responsible for overseeing the financial health of French football clubs. Despite efforts by the club’s ownership to present a more stable financial outlook, the DNCG ruled that Lyon would drop to Ligue 2.
Last year, Lyon disclosed debts totalling approximately €500 million (£418m). In response, the club’s parent company, Eagle Football Group, attempted to improve its financial standing by initiating several measures, including the sale of John Textor’s stake in Premier League club Crystal Palace and the sale of Lyon’s women’s team. However, these actions fell short of the DNCG’s standards.
John Textor, the club’s majority shareholder, had previously expressed optimism following meetings with the DNCG. “Our shareholders have injected new capital, not just to satisfy the DNCG but also for our UEFA licensing. The sale of Crystal Palace has strengthened our liquidity,” he said.
Lyon has the option to appeal the decision. If unsuccessful, the club will compete in Ligue 2 for the 2025–26 season, a stunning fall from grace for one of France’s most decorated football institutions.
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