Lyon Relegated for Finances; Reims May Replace Them

Seven-time French champions Lyon have been relegated to Ligue 2 by the DNCG after failing to provide sufficient financial guarantees, with debts reported at £422 million despite substantial player sales and wage reductions. Owner John Textor recently sold his stake in Crystal Palace to address UEFA multi-club ownership rules and improve Lyon’s liquidity, but the DNCG found the club's measures and equity injections inadequate. Lyon finished sixth in Ligue 1 last season but now faces the loss of their European qualification and a historic end to their 35-year top-flight run. Textor has announced an immediate appeal against the decision, insisting the club’s financial position has improved. If the relegation is upheld, Lyon will be replaced in Ligue 1 by Reims. The ruling marks a dramatic fall for a club that dominated French football in the 2000s and recently reached the Champions League semi-finals.