Lyon to fight 'incomprehensible' demotion from Ligue 1

Lyon have announced their intention to appeal against their demotion from Ligue 1, describing the decision by the National Management Control Directorate (DNCG) as "incomprehensible".

Last November, French football's financial watchdog announced Lyon had been hit with a provisional demotion to Ligue 2 amid concerns regarding the club's finances.

Lyon have since attempted to reduce their spiralling debts, which had been estimated at €500m.

Chairman John Textor sold his minority stake in Crystal Palace to New York Jets owner Woody Johnson for £190m, while Lyon's women's team was also sold off and rebranded.

First-teamers including Said Benrahma, Anthony Lopes, Maxence Caqueret and Rayan Cherki have also been sold by the seven-time champions, who finished sixth in Ligue 1 last season.

The DNCG was not satisfied with those savings and announced on Tuesday that Lyon must compete in the second tier, but they intend to fight the ruling.

A club statement read: "Olympique Lyonnais acknowledges the incomprehensible decision rendered by the DNCG tonight and confirms that it will immediately file an appeal. 

"In recent months, we have worked closely with the DNCG, satisfying all of its requests with cash equity investments exceeding the amounts requested. 

"Thanks to the equity contributions of our shareholders and the sale of Crystal Palace, our cash position has improved significantly, and we have more than sufficient resources for the 2025-26 season. 

"With so much cash liquidity demonstrated, and sporting success which has earned European competition in two consecutive years, we sincerely do not understand how one administrative decision could relegate such a great French club. 

"Through our appeal, we will establish our substantial cash resources as necessary for Olympique Lyonnais to keep its place in Ligue 1."

Reims, who lost the relegation play-off to Metz, will replace Lyon in the top flight if the DNCG's ruling is upheld.