A decision on whether Crystal Palace can compete in next season’s Europa League has been delayed by Uefa due to the club’s multi-club ownership rules. The Eagles earned a place in the competition by winning the FA Cup last season, but their participation is under threat because co-owner John Textor also co-owns French club Lyon. Uefa’s rules prevent teams under the same ownership from competing in the same European competition, and a decision on Palace’s fate was expected on Monday.
However, the situation has been complicated by Lyon’s recent demotion to Ligue 2 by the French football authorities due to poor finances. The club is appealing against the decision, but if they fail, they have agreed to relinquish their Europa League spot. As a result, Uefa has opted to wait until the outcome of Lyon’s appeal before making a decision on Palace’s participation. The governing body has stated that further details will be announced in “due course”.
The delay in the decision has left Palace’s fans and players in limbo, unsure of whether they will be able to compete in the prestigious competition. Meanwhile, Textor is in the process of selling his 44% stake in Palace to New York Jets owner Woody Johnson. The American businessman, 59, resigned from his leadership role at Lyon on Monday after deciding to step back from the day-to-day running of the club, in which he owns a 77% stake.
The financial situation at Lyon has been under scrutiny, with the club’s debts totaling £422m, as announced by Textor’s Eagle Football Group last October. Lyon has described the decision to demote them to Ligue 2 as “incomprehensible” and has vowed to appeal the decision. If Palace is ultimately granted a spot in the Europa League, they will enter the group phase, which begins in September.
The outcome of Lyon’s appeal will have a significant impact on Palace’s chances of participating in the Europa League. Uefa’s decision will be crucial in determining the fate of both clubs, and fans will be eagerly awaiting the outcome. The governing body’s rules are in place to ensure fair competition, and the decision will be made with this in mind.