Why Crystal Palace May be Banned From Playing in the Europa League Next Season
Crystal Palace’s Europa League Dream at Risk Despite Historic FA Cup Victory
Crystal Palace created one of the greatest moments in their history last Saturday, defeating Manchester City 1-0 in the FA Cup final.
Eberechi Eze’s 16th-minute goal sealed a memorable win at Wembley, sending the Eagles faithful into celebration and sparking dreams of European nights next season.
With the FA Cup win, Palace were expected to secure a place in the Europa League for the 2025/26 season. However, new reports suggest their participation could be in jeopardy due to UEFA’s rules on multi-club ownership.
UEFA Rule May Block Palace from Europa League
According to The Evening Standard, Palace’s spot in the competition could be under threat because of co-owner John Textor’s involvement with Eagle Football Group, which also holds an 88% stake in French side Olympique Lyonnais.
UEFA regulations prohibit any individual or entity from having “control or influence” over more than one club participating in European competitions.
This rule exists to protect the integrity of the tournament.
Textor’s group owns 43% of Palace and a controlling share in Lyon, who are regular contenders in UEFA’s competitions and are currently sixth in Ligue 1.
The rule defines control or influence as holding a majority of voting rights, having the ability to appoint or remove key decision-makers, or exerting significant influence over a club’s operations.
Palace’s Europa League Place Under Review
Lyon were eliminated from this season’s Europa League by Manchester United in the quarter-finals.
They are now on track for a Europa Conference League spot, but that could change if PSG win the Coupe de France final.
Should that happen, Lyon would move into the Europa League spot, increasing the risk of a conflict with Palace’s qualification.
If UEFA determines that Textor’s involvement breaches ownership rules, Palace may be denied their Europa League spot and dropped into the Conference League instead.
Since Lyon are finishing higher in their domestic league, they would take precedence under UEFA guidelines.
Palace Remain Confident Amid Uncertainty
Despite the uncertainty, Palace reportedly remain confident that they haven’t violated any UEFA regulations and expect to compete in the Europa League next season.
The club, currently 12th in the Premier League, believes that Textor’s role does not amount to direct control that would trigger a ban.
As fans begin preparing for European away days, all eyes are now on UEFA’s decision – one that could significantly impact Palace’s historic FA Cup triumph.
