Olympique Lyonnais have officially secured their place in Ligue 1 for the upcoming season after winning their appeal against relegation, the French Football Federation (FFF) confirmed on Wednesday.
The decision marks a major victory for the seven-time French champions, who had been relegated last month by French football’s financial watchdog due to budgetary concerns. The club had been placed under financial restrictions since November, raising alarm bells over their operational sustainability.
However, following the takeover by American businesswoman Michele Kang, who replaced fellow American John Textor as club president, the FFF accepted the appeal—on the condition that Lyon reduce their wage bill and transfer spending heading into the 2024/25 campaign.
In a statement following the ruling, the Club said:
“Lyon would like to thank the appeal commission after it recognised the ambition of the new management of the club. Today’s decision constitutes the first step of re-establishing trust in Lyon.”
Michele Kang, already president of Lyon’s women’s team, becomes the second-largest shareholder at the club. Her influence comes at a pivotal time as Textor steps back from day-to-day club affairs. The 59-year-old entrepreneur still owns stakes in Botafogo (Brazil) and Molenbeek (Belgium), but he sold his 43% stake in Crystal Palace last month to balance Lyon’s books.
The club’s successful appeal not only keeps them in the French top flight but also guarantees their participation in the UEFA Europa League, having finished sixth in Ligue 1 last season. However, the club has already agreed to pay a fine to UEFA over financial irregularities.
As part of their restructuring, Lyon have begun slashing their wage bill—with senior players like Alexandre Lacazette and Anthony Lopes leaving the club. Meanwhile, rising stars Rayan Cherki and Maxence Caqueret have been sold to Manchester City and Como, respectively.
Textor also revealed that his Eagle Football Group has invested €83 million (approx. $97 million) into the club to stabilize finances.
With 7 Ligue 1 titles between 2002 and 2008, Lyon remain one of France’s most decorated clubs, second only to Paris Saint-Germain, who top the chart with 13.
The club began pre-season training on Monday, and will kick off their Ligue 1 campaign with an away match against RC Lens between August 15 and 17.
