June 5 – English Premier League side Crystal Palace are hoping to embark on their maiden European adventure next season after qualifying for the Europa League – but UEFA’s multi-club ownership regulations could yet throw a spanner in the works.
UEFA rules prohibit individuals from being involved in more than one club competing in the same European tournament. This creates a problem for Palace, as their co-owner John Textor holds a majority stake in French side Olympique Lyonnais, who have also qualified for the Europa League.
To avoid this perceived conflict of interest and circumvent UEFA’s regulations, Textor may be forced to sell his Palace shares to fellow owners Steve Parish, Josh Harris, and David Blitzer in a cut-price deal.
With excitement already building around Selhurst Park for European adventures, the four owners recently visited UEFA headquarters in Switzerland. Their mission: convince officials that Textor does not hold a controlling interest in the FA Cup winners.
The meeting concluded without a decision, but sources close to the situation suggest UEFA could deliver its ruling as early as next week.
Textor’s football interests extend beyond Palace and Lyon through his Eagle Football Holdings group, which includes Brazilian club Botafogo and Belgian side RWD Molenbeek.
While Palace operates outside of the Eagle Group structure, Textor owns a 45% stake in the London club following his £90million investment in 2021.
Previously, Textor had expressed ambitions to gain full control of Palace, but European qualification has changed the equation entirely, with Textor now reportedly willing to make an extraordinary sacrifice.
Sources indicate he would sell his Palace shares to his partners at under 25% of their market value if it means the difference between Palace competing in Europe or being excluded from the tournament.
Contact the writer of this story, Nick Webster, at moc.l1749221510labto1749221510ofdlr1749221510owedi1749221510sni@r1749221510etsbe1749221510w.kci1749221510n1749221510