A Shocking Fall for a Big French Club
Seven-time French champions Olympique Lyonnais (Lyon) have been relegated to Ligue 2, the second division of French football. This big news was announced on Tuesday, June 25, 2025, by the French Professional Football League (LFP).
Lyon is a very famous football club. In the past, they were one of the best teams in France. Just last season, they finished 6th in Ligue 1 and even reached the quarterfinals of the UEFA Europa League. But now, because of money problems, they will play in Ligue 2 next season.
Why Was Lyon Relegated?
The decision to relegate Lyon was made by the National Directorate of Management Control (DNCG). This is the group that checks if football clubs in France are spending their money the right way.
In November 2024, the DNCG said Lyon had a big problem. They had €175 million (over $200 million) in debt and no strong plan to fix it. Lyon tried to explain how they would get the money. They wanted to use funds from Botafogo, a club in Brazil that is also owned by John Textor.
But the DNCG said no. They did not allow Lyon to transfer money that way. The DNCG wanted a clear and safe plan.
Who Owns Lyon?
John Textor, an American businessman, owns Lyon. He also owns Botafogo in Brazil and had a big stake in Crystal Palace in England. But just one day before the DNCG decision, he sold 43% of Crystal Palace shares.
Textor and Lyon’s football director Mickael Gerlinger met with the DNCG. They tried to explain how Lyon could pay the debts. They also said that selling Rayan Cherki to Manchester City for €42.5 million would help the club get money.
Still, the DNCG was not convinced. They said the plan was not good enough to keep Lyon in Ligue 1.
Lyon’s Response and Appeal Plan
Lyon is not happy with this decision. Club leaders said they will appeal the relegation. They believe they can answer all the DNCG’s questions and show they are working to fix the problem.
Lyon’s fans are also upset. Many believe that the team did well on the field and should not be punished because of financial mistakes by the owners.
Still, the rules are clear. A club must be strong both on and off the pitch, and that includes good money management.
Read more: Lyon relegated to Ligue 2 due to financial problems
What This Means for Ligue 1 and Ligue 2
Lyon’s relegation is one of the biggest shocks in French football in many years. Lyon is a club with a rich history, amazing fans, and top players. Now they will play in the second division.
This decision will also affect many things:
- Players may leave to join Ligue 1 or European clubs.
- TV money will be lower in Ligue 2.
- The club must rebuild from the bottom and try to come back stronger.
Final Thoughts – Can Lyon Come Back?
This is a hard time for Lyon and their fans. But football is full of surprises. Many big clubs like Juventus, Rangers, and Leeds United were once relegated and later came back stronger.
Lyon has talented players, a big fan base, and a proud history. If they can fix their finances and work as a team, they might return to Ligue 1 soon.
Let’s hope that this tough moment becomes a turning point for Lyon to grow better and stronger.
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