Seven-time French champion Lyon is relegated to the second division.

The French football club (FC) Lyon was transferred to the second strongest division of the French championship by the decision of the National Directorate for Control and Management (DNCG). This was reported on June 25 by the newspaper L'Équipe.

"The court confirmed the transfer of the club to the second division in accordance with article 11 of the DNCG," the newspaper said in a statement.

FC can still appeal this decision and submit new materials capable of changing the position of the DNCG in the first instance.

It is specified that the decision on the preliminary transfer was made in November last year, but it finally became known today. According to the newspaper, Lyon was relegated to the second division due to financial problems: the club had a debt of 175 million euros.

Lyon later confirmed the DNCG's decision, but stressed that it was going to appeal it. According to the club, their financial situation has now improved, and with the help of an appeal, he plans to return the amount necessary for Lyon to retain its place in the first division. In the 2024/25 season, the club took sixth place in the French championship and received the right to play in the Europa League, Sport-Express added.

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