Olympique Lyonnais, one of France’s most prestigious clubs, finds itself in a delicate situation following its recent administrative relegation to Ligue 2. The decision, made by the National Control and Management Directorate (DNCG) of the Professional Football League (LFP), has placed the club at an administrative and sporting crossroads. The club now has seven days to file an appeal that could determine its immediate future.
The club, owned by businessman John Textor, is evaluating the options available to appeal this decision. Among the alternatives is to appeal to the DNCG’s appeals committee, which is part of the French Football Federation, or to go directly to the French National Olympic Committee (CNOSF).
Legal options and precedents
The most common route in such cases is to file an appeal with the DNCG appeals committee, where the club could provide new evidence, such as confirmation of promised income in its accounts. However, if this body confirms the initial decision, Lyon would have the option of appealing to the CNOSF.
According to legal experts, the CNOSF does not have the power to overturn initial decisions, but rather assesses whether the case was judged correctly. This limits the chances of success at this stage, as no new evidence can be presented. Ultimately, the club could take the case to the Paris Administrative Court, although this option is usually ineffective, as civil courts tend to uphold previous decisions by sports bodies.
A historic club in danger
Olympique Lyonnais is not just any club in the French football scene. Founded in 1950, it has been a benchmark both nationally and internationally, especially during its golden age in the 2000s, when it won seven consecutive Ligue 1 titles. Its influence transcends the borders of France, being recognized as a model of sports management and a breeding ground for talent.
However, the current situation jeopardizes not only its prestige but also its financial and sporting stability. The management of John Textor, who took control of the club in 2022, has come under scrutiny, especially following the financial problems that have led Lyon to this critical situation.
The precedent of Girondins de Bordeaux
The case of Olympique Lyonnais is reminiscent of that of Girondins de Bordeaux, another historic French football club that was relegated to N2 after similar problems. In that case, the league’s financial control bodies and the FFF were criticized for their initial leniency towards Gérard Lopez, the club’s owner, despite doubts about his ability to finance the project.
