Crystal Palace’s Europa League spot is under threat due to UEFA’s multi-club ownership rules, with US businessman John Textor’s shares in both Palace and Lyon causing the conflict.

Crystal Palace’s FA Cup win has earned them a spot in the Europa League, but their participation is uncertain due to UEFA’s multi-club ownership rules. 

The issue arises from US businessman John Textor’s shares in both Palace and Lyon, with both clubs qualifying for the Europa League. UEFA’s rules prohibit clubs with the same ownership group from playing in the same competition, putting Palace’s spot at risk.

According to the rules, when a conflict of interest arises, the club that finished lower in their domestic league loses their place. Palace finished 12th in the Premier League, while Lyon finished sixth in Ligue 1. 

To argue their case, Palace executive chairman Steve Parish and Textor attended a meeting at UEFA headquarters in Switzerland. Palace claims that Textor’s minority stake and the club’s board structure, led by Parish, ensure independence in decision-making.

The club also argues that unforeseen circumstances led to both teams qualifying for the Europa League, missing the March 1 deadline to change their ownership structure. 

Palace are willing to take immediate steps to comply with UEFA regulations and ensure their participation in the competition. Textor has expressed his intention to sell his stake in Palace, emphasizing the club’s independence and potential technical administrative errors rather than intentional breaches of UEFA’s rules.

Other clubs with similar ownership structures have participated in the same UEFA competitions, including RB Leipzig and Red Bull Salzburg, and Manchester City and Girona in the Champions League last season, which Palace may use as a precedent to support their case.