How Crystal Palace is Fighting to Sustain Their European Aspirations
Crystal Palace Could Face European Setback
Crystal Palace is on edge, anticipating a ruling that could dash their hopes of participating in European competitions before they’ve even had a chance to begin. The club recently secured the FA Cup, marking their first major trophy victory, which traditionally qualifies teams for the Europa League, a landmark achievement for the south London club in its rich history spanning over a century.
Nevertheless, the possibility of Palace’s European plans hinges on a decision by UEFA on whether the club has violated regulations concerning multi-club ownership. The inquiry primarily involves American investor John Textor, who holds a 43% stake in Crystal Palace through his company, Eagle Football.
Competing Interests: Palace and Lyon
Eagle Football also holds a 77% share in the French team Lyon, which has also earned a spot in the next season’s Europa League. The outcome of this situation will be crucial in determining whether both clubs can participate in the tournament concurrently.
Palace’s Defense Against Allegations
Crystal Palace argues that their FA Cup victory and subsequent European qualification were solely the result of their own efforts. The club insists that it operates independently and does not engage in any multi-club model that could lead to conflicts of interest.
Uefa regulations are designed to prevent collusion between teams, and Palace is firm in its belief that the shareholding of Textor does not exert significant influence over club decisions, as he possesses just 25% of the voting rights—below the critical 30% threshold that Uefa identifies as pivotal for defining control.
The club has clearly indicated that there has been no collaboration with Lyon since Textor’s financial involvement began in August 2021, particularly concerning their FA Cup campaign. They also highlighted that no player transfers have occurred between the two clubs since 2023 and emphasized the complete absence of shared personnel, strategies, or financial agreements.
The Path to Compliance: Textor’s Possible Resignation
According to Uefa’s guidelines, clubs must adhere to ownership regulations meant to maintain competitive integrity. Starting March 1, 2025, compliance is essential to demonstrate that a team is not simultaneously managing or influencing multiple clubs in UEFA competitions.
To align with these stipulations, clubs often seek to divest interests from significant shareholders to avoid violations. Past examples include various ownership groups adjusting their stakes to ensure that all clubs have fair representation in European football.
In light of this, Crystal Palace is reportedly considering asking Textor to resign from his position as a director. Such a move would eliminate any influence he holds in the club, reinforcing their case to Uefa.
Disproportionality of Punishment Concerns
Palace has articulated its perspective that a ban from the Europa League would constitute a disproportionate response, negatively impacting not just the team but also its players, staff, fans, and the wider community. They believe that a technical breach should not lead to severe penalties and have suggested alternatives such as fines or supervisory measures focused on player transfers.
The club’s ideal resolution would reflect UEFA’s commitment to promoting the development of football, ensuring that the interests of those uninvolved in ownership disputes remain safeguarded. UEFA is expected to announce its verdict in the coming weeks, a decision that could have far-reaching consequences for Crystal Palace’s ambitions on the European stage.
