Lyon at risk of exclusion from European competition? | OneFootball

With one gameweek remaining in Ligue 1, Olympique Lyonnais currently sit fourth in the table. Should they finish there, Paulo Fonseca’s side would qualify for the preliminary rounds of the UEFA Champions League. There is a chance for them to catch Lille OSC in third, which would see them directly access the ‘League Phase’, but there is also the possibility of being reeled in by Stade Rennais on the final day of the season. Should that happen, Lyon would drop into the UEFA Europa League.

However, as per a report from The Telegraph, OL may not participate in any form of European competition next season, regardless of their league finish. Last season, Lyon were administratively relegated due to the club’s financial management under John Textor. Ultimately, the decision was overturned, but not before Textor departed. 

OL also competed in the Europa League this season, having reached an agreement with UEFA. However, The Telegraph understands that OL may not have respected the terms of last summer’s agreement. The publication understands that OL failed to inject €60m before 15th July 2025 and convert them into shares before 15th October. OL, contacted, have described the figure quoted as “far-fetched”. 

GFFN | Luke Entwistle