Crystal Palace FC is set to face a formidable opponent. Four days later, on July 11, UEFA relegated the club from the Europa League to the Conference League. As of March 1, FIFA—the international governing body for European soccer—handed down a landmark decision. They discovered that John Textor, associated with Eagle Football, exerts control or influence over both Crystal Palace and the French club Lyon. The club was unable to make an ownership change by the deadline. Consequently, it breached UEFA’s multi-club ownership rules.
Chairman Steve Parish expressed his strong frustration with the decision. He described it as “one of the greatest injustices” in the history of European football. He ruled out any suggestion that Crystal Palace and Lyon are members of a multi-club ownership structure. The club is now acutely aware that the clock is ticking and is actively going after UEFA’s decision. This decision handed their Europa League position over to Nottingham Forest.
The Basis of the Demotion
UEFA’s relegation of Crystal Palace was based on its own rules regarding multi-club ownership. Under these regulations, no one person or corporate body can control more than one club competing in UEFA competitions. The governing body found that Textor’s operational control over both clubs breached this principle.
Parish made a strong case against the ruling. He described it as a “crazy rule” that failed to take into account the intricacies of modern football ownership. He reiterated that neither Textor nor anyone connected with Eagle Football had operational control over Crystal Palace.
“Obviously, as everybody knows, John or anybody at Eagle Football didn’t have decisive influence over Crystal Palace. Everybody knows we’re not part of a multi-club [ownership]. Everybody knows we have no staff, no players from Lyon, no loans, no transactions.” – Steve Parish
Parish’s comments reflect the club’s stance that they are victims of an unfair ruling that does not accurately represent their ownership structure.
Club Response and Future Aspirations
After this demotion, Crystal Palace took a different direction. They are currently contesting the UEFA ruling at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). Their manager, Oliver Glasner, was very confident their chances of success in this appeal process would be high.
“We focus on what we have to do on the pitch, how to create this spirit in the group, this togetherness, this commitment, and this is what we are doing day by day.” – Oliver Glasner
Glasner’s comments point to the work of the squad in upholding morale and concentration despite the tumultuous goings on off the field. The club awaits a final decision with fingers crossed that things break their way enough to let them back into the Europa League.
Parish conveyed a sense of solidarity with supporters, stating that they are “devastated for, most importantly, the supporters.” He continued, saying the ruling is not just bad news for Crystal Palace, but sends shockwaves across the footballing world. He asked supporters from other clubs to put themselves in their shoes.
“I think most right-minded football fans will see what a terrible injustice this is for the football club, one that I dearly hope somebody can remedy because I do believe that nobody in football wants to see this.” – Steve Parish
Upcoming Competitions and Focus
Despite the continuing arbitration, Palace is most clearly intent on putting as positive a face forward as possible on future business—both on the field and off. The club has been drawn to face either Norwegian side Fredrikstad or Danish club FC Midtjylland in an upcoming cup competition. This opportunity affords the talented team of practitioners the chance to show off their skills. Or, as we hope to see, they can continue with the momentum of winning a championship for the first time in franchise history.
As they await the CAS hearing, Crystal Palace continues to prepare for upcoming matches, demonstrating resilience in the face of adversity. This case highlights the convoluted world of football governance. More importantly, it highlights the inspiring dedication of clubs and their fans as they lead the way through these difficulties.
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