Olympique Lyon Saved from Relegation
Olympique Lyonnais have pulled off the great escape, with French football’s financial watchdogs at the DNCG reversing their previous decision to relegate the historic Ligue 1 club. After months of bureaucratic posturing over debts running into the hundreds of millions, the Commission of Appeal has ultimately decided the seven-time champions can stay in the top-flight of French football. “Olympique Lyonnais (OL) are pleased with today’s decision by the DNCG to allow the club to remain in Ligue 1,” came the official word from the Groupama Stadium. “The Commission of Appeal has acknowledged the ambition of the new leadership, committed to ensuring a serious and responsible financial management moving forward.” The latest chapter in the ongoing saga of OL began in late June when the DNCG made good on an initial threat of administrative relegation made last November. The fiasco led to the departure of John Textor as club president, with Michelle Kang stepping in. Kang – an investor in OL owners Eagle Football Holdings and outright owner of several women’s teams including OL Lyonnes – helped go about with the financial restructuring of the club. Even PSG played their part, fast-tracking a €45 million payment for Bradley Barcola to inject much-needed liquidity. “The new management, supported by the commitment and dedication of our shareholders and lenders, is extremely grateful for all the support received both within and outside the club,” OL added. “Today’s decision is the first step in restoring confidence in Olympique Lyonnais. We can now focus our attention on our sporting objectives, fully preparing for next season.” The ruling is a vote of confidence in OL’s revised financial roadmap, albeit with payroll restrictions imposed by the DNCG, with the broad support from players, staff, and local authorities clearly resonating with decision-makers. Now the real work begins. OL can finally turn their attention back to what matters most – football. The 2025/26 season will be the ultimate test of whether this new regime can rebuild the credibility the club needs to reclaim its place among French football’s elite.
