UEFA give update on Crystal Palace Europa League ruling

UEFA has delayed a decision on whether Crystal Palace will be granted entry into next season's Europa League.

The Eagles believed they had secured their spot in Europe's second-tier club competition following their FA Cup final victory over Manchester City in May, but questions arose due to UEFA's multi-club ownership rules.

Outgoing Palace shareholder John Textor also holds an interest in French outfit Lyon, who have qualified for the same tournament.

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On Monday, UEFA stated it required more time to reach a verdict and revealed that Lyon had agreed to a settlement which would see them excluded from European competition next season if their relegation to France's second division was confirmed.

This demotion is currently being contested by the French side.

Lyon were relegated due to financial issues by French football's financial watchdog, the DNCG.

Last week, it was revealed that Textor had agreed to sell his stake in Palace to New York Jets owner Woody Johnson. On Monday, it was announced that he had stepped down from his leadership roles at Lyon as well.

Whether these developments will aid Palace's case remains uncertain.

Palace's situation has been scrutinised under article five of UEFA's club competition regulations, which stipulate that from March 1 this year, clubs wishing to qualify for the 2025-26 season must prove that no individual or legal entity has control or influence over more than one club participating in the same competition.

In the event that multiple clubs don't meet the necessary criteria, only one can secure a spot in European competitions, with Lyon's superior league standing potentially edging them ahead of Palace.

Lyon released a statement confirming their settlement agreement with UEFA's Club Financial Control Body (CFCB), stating they "could therefore participate in next season's Europa League, subject to a favourable outcome of the appeal of the DNCG decision."

This suggests that Lyon's eligibility for the Europa League is contingent on the success of their appeal against the DNCG's decision.

However, it remains uncertain whether UEFA would also allow Palace to compete if they satisfy the multi-club ownership regulations, or if Palace's entry is dependent solely on the confirmation of Lyon's demotion.

Palace has been approached for a response by the PA news agency.