Lyon's Inclusion in Ligue 1 Schedule 2025-26 Sparks Controversy Amid Financial Woes

Lyon's Inclusion in Ligue 1 Schedule 2025-26 Sparks Controversy Amid Financial Woes

Despite being demoted to French football's second tier due to financial struggles, Lyon has found its name on the Ligue 1 schedule for the upcoming 2025-26 season. The schedule was unveiled on Friday, with Lyon set to face Lens in their opening game, scheduled for the weekend of 16-17 August.

The DNGC, the body responsible for overseeing the accounts of French professional football clubs, provisionally relegated Lyon in November. However, a meeting between club officials, including owner John Textor, and the DNGC earlier this week failed to convince the body that Lyon had made sufficient improvements to their financial situation to lift the punishment.

Last October, Textor's Eagle Football Group, which holds a 77% stake in Lyon, revealed debts amounting to £422m. The club described the DNGC's decision as "incomprehensible" and has since taken steps to appeal.

Lyon ended the 2024-25 season in sixth place and qualified for the Europa League. Their relegation could have implications for FA Cup winners Crystal Palace, whose chances of competing in the Europa League next season are threatened due to UEFA rules that prohibit multiple teams under one multi-club ownership structure from participating in the same European competition.

Textor also owns a stake in Crystal Palace, although he agreed to sell his 43% share in the club on Monday. On Friday, UEFA executives met to discuss the matter, with the outcome of the hearing initially expected later in the day, but the meeting has now been rescheduled to commence at the start of next week.