Shock: Lyon was relegated

On the evening of June 24 (local time), the Financial Control Organization of French Professional Football Clubs (DNCG) officially decided to demote Lyon Club to play in Ligue 2 (French First Division) from the 2025-2026 season.

Many stars like Lacazette may leave Lyon - Photo: REUTERS

This is a big shock for French football, when one of the most traditional teams in the country was relegated not because of performance on the field, but because of serious financial problems.

DNCG said the decision was made after a review of Lyon's financial records, and confirmed the club did not meet the mandatory financial requirements to maintain its position in Ligue 1.

Although Lyon had previously pledged to add capital and account for investments, DNCG stressed that “promises are not enough, we need to see real money in the accounts”.

According to French media, Lyon is currently carrying a huge debt, estimated at 175 - 500 million euros, causing their financial situation to fall into a state of serious imbalance.

Owner John Textor has claimed the club has taken several steps to raise capital, including selling off its stake in Crystal Palace and pushing ahead with the sale of players like Rayan Cherki. However, DNCG still believes that these commitments are not convincing enough.

Immediately after DNCG's decision, Lyon remained calm and confirmed that it would appeal within 7 days.

Mr. Textor did not make an official statement after the hearing, but had previously expressed confidence that “everything is fine financially.” Some sources said Lyon is rushing to complete procedures to sell shares and players to supplement DNCG’s evidentiary capital.

Sports finance expert Vincent Chaudel said that Lyon can still hope to reverse the situation if they provide enough documents to prove cash flow.

However, he also warned that even in the event of a successful appeal, the club could still face wage spending limits or a partial transfer ban next season.

If the ban is not overturned, Lyon will be relegated to Ligue 2 for the first time since 1989. Their place in Ligue 1 will likely be handed back to Stade Reims, who finished 16th last season.

The Lyon incident is a clear warning from the DNCG that financial standards in French football will not be relaxed, even for big-name clubs.

This is also an alarm bell about the financial instability that is simmering at many top European football teams. A year ago, another traditional French team, Bordeaux, was even demoted to the Fourth Division (amateur) due to financial problems.

With 7 Ligue 1 titles, Lyon is the fifth most traditional club in France, after PSG, Saint Etienne, Monaco and Nantes. Last season, Lyon finished 6th in Ligue 1.

Lyon has had many notable stars over the years, such as Lacazette, Cherki, Malick Fofana, Matic... However, with the relegation, it is likely that these names will leave the team. Currently, Cherki has been sold to Man City.

HUY DANG

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/soc-lyon-bi-danh-rot-hang-20250625044818189.htm