Crystal Palace have condemned UEFA and the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) after losing their appeal against being demoted from the Europa League to the Conference League, saying the ruling shows “sporting merit is rendered meaningless.”
Palace qualified for the Europa League by winning last season’s FA Cup but were sanctioned by UEFA for breaching multi-club ownership rules. CAS upheld UEFA’s decision on Monday, prompting a strongly worded statement from the club, which said it was “almost impossible to receive a fair hearing” and claimed “certain clubs, organisations and individuals have a unique privilege and power.”
The Eagles argued that the decision undermines the hopes of fans and aspirational clubs across Europe, accusing UEFA of applying rules and sanctions “unevenly.” Palace said they would continue to seek legal advice while preparing for their Conference League campaign.
The ruling means Nottingham Forest, who finished seventh in the Premier League, will take Palace’s place in the Europa League. Palace also criticised UEFA for allowing clubs with “huge informal arrangements” to compete in the same competitions, while blocking their own participation.
UEFA had given Palace until 1 March 2025 to restructure their ownership. At the time of assessment, American businessman John Textor — then a 43% shareholder in Palace and majority owner of Lyon — was deemed to still hold “decisive influence” over both clubs. CAS also dismissed Palace’s claim they were treated unfairly compared with Nottingham Forest and Lyon.
Advertisements
