Lyon, a historic powerhouse in French football, has been included in the Ligue 1 fixtures for the 2025-26 season despite facing provisional relegation due to severe financial difficulties. The decision has ignited widespread debate within the football community.

Financial Turmoil and Provisional Relegation

In November, the DNGC (Direction Nationale du Contrôle de Gestion), the body responsible for overseeing the financial accounts of French professional football clubs, provisionally demoted Lyon. This decision came after the club failed to demonstrate significant improvements in its financial health. Club officials, including owner John Textor, met with the DNGC earlier this week but were unable to persuade the body to lift the punishment.

Opening Fixture Against Lens

Despite the ongoing financial crisis, Lyon has been scheduled to play Lens in their opening game of the 2025-26 campaign, set to commence on the weekend of August 16-17. This inclusion in the Ligue 1 fixtures has raised eyebrows, as the club's future remains uncertain.

Impact on European Competitions

Lyon's situation could have broader implications for European football. The club finished sixth in Ligue 1 last season, qualifying for the Europa League. However, their relegation could benefit FA Cup winners Crystal Palace, whose participation in the Europa League is under threat due to UEFA regulations preventing multiple teams under the same multi-club ownership structure from competing in the same European competition. Textor, who owns stakes in both Lyon and Crystal Palace, recently agreed to sell his 43% share in Palace.

UEFA's Deliberations

UEFA executives convened on Friday to discuss the matter, with a decision expected later in the day. However, the meeting has been adjourned and is set to resume at the start of next week, leaving the football world in suspense.

Club's Response and Appeal

Lyon has described the DNGC's decision as "incomprehensible" and has taken steps to appeal the provisional relegation. The club's financial woes are significant, with Textor's Eagle Football Group, which owns a 77% stake in Lyon, announcing debts of £422 million last October.

Historical Context

Lyon has a storied history in French football, having won the Ligue 1 title on seven occasions. Their potential relegation marks a dramatic fall from grace for a club that has been a consistent presence in the top tier of French football.

Conclusion

As Lyon navigates its financial and sporting challenges, the football community watches closely. The club's inclusion in the Ligue 1 fixtures despite its provisional relegation adds another layer of intrigue to an already complex situation. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the future of one of France's most iconic football clubs.