If Olympique Lyonnais manages to stay in Ligue 1, they will be granted the opportunity to participate in the UEFA Europa League, following a financial accord reached with UEFA.
Downgraded to Ligue 2 by financial regulators, Lyon fights back
Lyon made headlines on Friday, June 27, following their administrative relegation to Ligue 2 by the National Directorate of Management Control (DNCG) on Tuesday. Yet, the Rhône club isn't throwing in the towel just yet. They've managed to validate their financial viability procedure with UEFA, ensuring they can grip onto a spot in the Europa League, providing they secure a place in Ligue 1.
Despite signing an agreement with UEFA's financial control body, the OL states that it can compete in the C3 tournament if its appeal of the DNCG's decision succeeds. Last November, UEFA's Club Financial Control Body (CFCB) opened a monitoring procedure against Lyon, a move that came after the DNCG's administrative relegation measure taken on November 15.
Lyon's finances have been under scrutiny due to a staggering debt reportedly reaching around €505.1 million as of October 2021[2][4][3]. The club has received a €200,000 fine from UEFA for unpaid amounts to other clubs, employees, or tax and social authorities, making it subject to the highest fine among all affected clubs[1].
As of Friday, Lyon hasn't received the official notification of the DNCG's decision to make an appeal. The club will have seven days from the receipt of the document to file its appeal[1].
Lyon owner John Textor is currently under financial pressure from investors in Eagle Football, who are demanding a buyout following the relegation. Textor is also working to secure the approval of the sale of his Crystal Palace stake as a means to strengthen Lyon's financial position and support their appeal [1].
Make no mistake—the OL is determined to fight for its place in Ligue 1. This saga between the club and the DNCG's appeal committee is far from over[1][2][3][4]. Stay tuned for updates on this exciting battle!
Lyon's determination to contest their relegation to Ligue 2 has led them to validate their financial viability procedure with UEFA, ensuring they maintain a potential spot in the Europa League, should they secure a Ligue 1 position. Additionally, the club's interest in sports-analysis, particularly in football, will likely aid their efforts to scrutinize and rectify their financial status.
