⚠️ Lyon win appeal and stay in Ligue 1, but under strict supervision

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OneFootball

·9 juillet 2025

⚠️ Lyon win appeal and stay in Ligue 1, but under strict supervision

Olympique Lyonnais achieved a crucial victory off the field on Wednesday (9).

After appearing before the Appeals Committee of the National Management Control Directorate (DNCG), the French club obtained authorization to remain in Ligue 1 for the 2025-2026 season, reversing the administrative relegation announced last week.

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The hearing took place at the headquarters of the French Football Federation (FFF) and was attended by president Michele Kang and general manager Michael Gerlinger. The current management presented a financial plan considered solid enough to convince the French football auditors.

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Despite remaining in the top division, Lyon will have to operate under severe restrictions. The DNCG determined the regulation of the payroll and transfer values, measures that force the club to keep finances strictly under control.

Remaining in Ligue 1 also guarantees the team led by Paulo Fonseca a spot in the Europa League, achieved in the last season.

However, the board will need creativity to assemble a competitive squad within the new budgetary limitations.

The decision puts an end to weeks of tension in Rhône and offers the fans a dose of relief – although the challenge is now both on and off the field.

Textor 'out' of Lyon

Owner of Botafogo and Crystal Palace, John Textor resigned from his leadership position on the Lyon board.

The American businessman, who has already agreed to sell his 43% stake in Palace to Woody Johnson, owner of the New York Jets, holds 77% of Lyon through his company, Eagle Football Group.

Lyon had been relegated from the French first division to Ligue 2 last week due to the club's precarious financial situation.

Amid the controversy, Textor stated that he would step away from the club's daily management and Michele Kang was announced as the new president.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.

📸 OLIVIER CHASSIGNOLE - AFP or licensors