UEFA Postpones Decision on Crystal Palaces Europa League Participation Amid Lyon Appeal

The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) will discuss Crystal Palace’s participation in next season’s Europa League after examining the appeal from French club Lyon, as reported by journalist Martin Ziegler.

According to the source, UEFA has postponed its decision regarding Crystal Palace’s involvement in the Europa League until a ruling is made on Lyon’s appeal. The French club has agreed to be excluded from European competitions in the 2025/2026 season if the decision to demote them from Ligue 1 stands.

Crystal Palace earned their place in the Europa League by winning the FA Cup, however, the club’s major shareholder, John Textor, owns a controlling stake in Lyon, which has also qualified for the tournament.

UEFA regulations prevent clubs with the same owner from participating in the same competition, which forced Textor to sell a 43% stake in Crystal Palace. Lyon has been relegated to the second division of France due to financial issues, and the club plans to appeal this decision.