Nottingham Forest handed Europa League hope as fresh statement made
Nottingham Forest’s European Hopes Hang in the Balance Amid Crystal Palace Ownership Controversy
The ongoing uncertainty surrounding Nottingham Forest’s participation in European competition next season has taken yet another unexpected turn, as the club continues to await confirmation of its European destination. With the summer rapidly progressing, Forest fans remain in limbo over whether the Reds will compete in the UEFA Europa Conference League or potentially be elevated to the Europa League.
The resolution now hinges on the fate of Crystal Palace, whose qualification for the Europa League via their FA Cup triumph is under scrutiny due to multi-club ownership regulations. The Eagles’ European status could be at risk as UEFA investigates a potential conflict of interest involving Palace shareholder John Textor, who also holds a significant role at French side Lyon.
Crystal Palace’s Europa League Spot Under Review
Textor’s dual influence is at the heart of the issue. As the majority stakeholder at Crystal Palace and the president of Olympique Lyonnais, he is caught in a regulatory dilemma. Both clubs have qualified for the Europa League, but under UEFA rules, an individual may not have decisive control over two clubs participating in the same European competition, to preserve the integrity of the tournament.
While Textor is reportedly in the process of divesting his shares in the south London club, the decision regarding whether his actions meet UEFA’s stringent compliance requirements has yet to be made. Previous reports suggested that Crystal Palace were optimistic about retaining their Europa League berth. However, fresh developments concerning Lyon have introduced a new layer of complexity.
Lyon’s Financial Troubles Muddy the Waters
Earlier this week, Lyon were relegated to Ligue 2 by the DNCG, France’s financial watchdog, due to concerns over the club’s financial viability. In response, Lyon immediately launched an appeal and issued a formal statement late Friday evening asserting their confidence in overturning the decision. They also revealed that they had signed a financial sustainability agreement with UEFA’s Club Financial Control Body, which could pave the way for their continued participation in next season’s Europa League—if their appeal is successful.
Lyon’s position is further strengthened by their superior league finish—they came 6th in Ligue 1, compared to Crystal Palace’s 12th place in the Premier League. If UEFA ultimately rules that the dual ownership rules have been violated, Lyon would likely be prioritized for Europa League participation based on sporting merit, leaving Palace at risk of being disqualified from European competition.
What It Means for Nottingham Forest
Should Palace be barred from the Europa League, their spot would not be handed to Lyon, as both are already qualified. Instead, Forest—who finished just outside the European places—could be promoted from the Europa Conference League to the Europa League, effectively leapfrogging into the more prestigious competition.
Nottingham Forest have already made their concerns known. The club, owned by Evangelos Marinakis, has reportedly sent formal correspondence to UEFA seeking clarification on the matter. Forest have taken steps to ensure they are not caught in a similar conflict; earlier this year, Marinakis placed his shares in Forest into a blind trust, thereby complying with UEFA’s ownership rules as his Greek club, Olympiacos, was also in the running for a European spot.
UEFA Decision Expected Soon
A final verdict from UEFA had originally been anticipated on Friday, but it has now been delayed. According to the BBC, the governing body’s decision will now be revealed on Monday, when UEFA executives reconvene. The delay has only added to the frustration for all involved parties, particularly for Forest, who are trying to plan for a European campaign without knowing which competition they’ll enter—or if they’ll participate at all.
Meanwhile, the Daily Mail has reported that Palace remain “confident” that they will be allowed to compete. Their argument reportedly rests on the claim that they share no facilities, resources, or personnel with Lyon, and that their operational structures are entirely independent.
A Defining Moment for Forest’s Summer Plans
The ramifications of this decision are significant for Nottingham Forest. A confirmed place in the Europa League would not only enhance their revenue potential but also allow them to attract higher-calibre signings and provide fans with more high-profile fixtures. It would also serve as a major validation of their progress under Marinakis’ ownership and help cement their return as a serious force in European football.
On the flip side, being confined to the Conference League—or potentially missing out altogether if the situation turns—would necessitate a rethink of summer recruitment, budgeting, and preparations for the 2025/26 season.
With pre-season fast approaching and transfer negotiations underway, time is of the essence. The eyes of Forest supporters, club executives, and the wider footballing world now turn to UEFA HQ for a decision that could define Forest’s European adventure—and reshape their short-term ambitions.