Olympique Lyonnais have officially regained their place in Ligue 1 after a successful appeal against a financial-driven relegation, the club confirmed on Tuesday.
The French football club had initially been demoted to Ligue 2 by the DNCG—France’s financial regulatory body for football—due to outstanding debts surpassing €175 million. However, the DNCG overturned its earlier decision following Lyon’s first appeal, allowing the club to remain in the French top flight for the 2025/26 season.
While the reinstatement comes as a relief for Lyon, the DNCG imposed new financial conditions, placing restrictions on the club’s transfer spending and wage bill going forward.
The ruling also ensures that Lyon will remain eligible to participate in next season’s UEFA Europa League, a development that could influence the European prospects of English club Crystal Palace.
Reacting to the appeal outcome, the club stated: “The decision marks a first step in restoring confidence in the club and allows them to now focus fully on their sporting objectives ahead of the new season.”
