UEFA Delays Crystal Palace Europa League Decision Amid Lyon Ownership Dispute

Crystal Palace's participation in the 2025-26 Europa League remains uncertain due to UEFA's multi-club ownership rules involving American businessman John Textor, who previously owned stakes in both Palace and French club Lyon. UEFA has postponed its ruling on Palace's eligibility until the outcome of Lyon's appeal against their relegation to Ligue 2, which was imposed due to financial irregularities. If Lyon's relegation is confirmed, Palace stands to take their place in the Europa League; however, if Lyon's appeal is successful, Lyon would participate instead, forcing Palace to compete in a lower-tier European competition or miss out. Despite Textor selling his 43% stake in Palace to Woody Johnson and stepping back from Lyon's leadership, UEFA’s Club Financial Control Body has not yet cleared Palace. The case is further complicated by UEFA's settlement agreement with Lyon, which includes potential exclusion from European competitions if relegation is upheld. UEFA has not announced a date for its final decision, leaving Palace's historic first European campaign in limbo.