Crystal Palace Owner Textor Plans Stake Sale Ahead Europa League Decision

John Textor, the largest shareholder of Crystal Palace with a 43-45% stake through his Eagle Football group, is attempting to sell his shares to resolve a UEFA conflict regarding multi-club ownership. Textor also owns a majority stake in Lyon, another club qualified for the Europa League, which violates UEFA rules prohibiting individuals from controlling multiple clubs in the same competition. Palace qualified for the Europa League after winning the FA Cup, while Lyon qualified through their Ligue 1 finish, creating a dilemma as UEFA could bar Palace from the tournament or demote them to the Conference League. Despite his significant shareholding, Textor holds only 25% voting rights in Palace and argues he lacks controlling influence, but UEFA has yet to make a final ruling following recent meetings. Potential solutions include selling his stake or implementing a blind trust to separate ownership interests, similar to precedents set by other multi-club owners. The outcome is pending, with a decision expected soon, as Palace seeks to safeguard its historic European debut.