Olympique Lyonnais Relegated to Ligue 2 Following DNCG Decision
In a shocking turn of events, Olympique Lyonnais, the seven-time French champions, have been relegated to Ligue 2 after an audit by France’s financial watchdog, the DNCG. The decision, announced on Tuesday, comes after Lyon was provisionally demoted in November due to serious financial concerns.
Club owner John Textor met with DNCG officials prior to the announcement, but the news was confirmed following their deliberations. Lyon has responded vigorously, stating they will appeal the decision immediately. In a club statement, they expressed disbelief over the ruling, emphasizing their collaboration with the DNCG and their efforts to satisfy all requests.
“Olympique Lyonnais takes note of the incomprehensible decision handed down by the DNCG this evening and confirms that it will appeal immediately,” the statement read. “With demonstrated funds and sporting success that has earned us a place in European competition two years running, we sincerely fail to understand how an administrative decision could relegate such a great French club.”
This development comes just a day after Textor sold a 43 percent stake in English club Crystal Palace, which Lyon hopes will bolster their financial standing. “Thanks to the equity contributions from our shareholders and the sale of Crystal Palace, our cash position has improved considerably and we have more than sufficient resources for the 2025/26 season,” the statement continued.
Lyon has been grappling with significant financial challenges, with reported debts totaling around £422 million. Although the club has attempted to raise funds through player sales, including Maxence Caqueret to Como and Rayan Cherki to Manchester City, they have not been able to convince the DNCG that their financial situation has stabilized enough to lift the sanctions.
Textor had previously expressed optimism about the club’s financial outlook, stating that new capital investments would aid both their DNCG and UEFA licensing processes. “Our liquidity situation has improved considerably,” he told reporters earlier on Tuesday.
Historically, Lyon has been a dominant force in French football, winning the league title seven times between 2002 and 2008. Despite finishing sixth in Ligue 1 last season and qualifying for the upcoming Europa League, the club now faces a challenging road ahead in Ligue 2 if the decision stands.
Should Lyon’s appeal fail, Stade de Reims, who were relegated from Ligue 1 after losing in the playoffs to Metz, will take their place in the top tier for the next season. As of now, neither Reims nor French football’s governing body (LFP) has commented on the situation.
