Irish football club Drogheda United`s participation in the UEFA Conference League has been blocked by the governing body due to regulations concerning multi-club ownership.
This development highlights a potential issue for Premier League team Crystal Palace, which is currently under scrutiny for a similar reason.
Drogheda United is owned by the Trivela Group, the same entity that holds a majority stake in Danish club Silkeborg IF.
Both clubs qualified for the Conference League, but UEFA rules prohibit two clubs with the same ownership structure from competing in the same competition.
Consequently, Drogheda, having finished lower in their domestic league than Silkeborg, was disqualified from next season`s tournament.
The club is reportedly preparing an immediate appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
In a released statement, Drogheda United confirmed notification from UEFA regarding their expulsion based on the multi-club ownership rule, despite significant efforts over several months to comply through ownership and governance adjustments. The club expressed devastation, calling the decision harsh and unfair, particularly criticising the inconsistent application of recent rule changes across different clubs.
They stated they are appealing to CAS and, while limited in what they can share due to ongoing legal proceedings, are “fighting to do anything and everything” to secure their European spot. They noted that proposed solutions, including share dispositions and trust arrangements consistent with past precedents, were rejected by UEFA.
The statement concluded by expressing anticipation for the CAS hearing and thanking supporters for their backing: “Keep the faith.”
Crystal Palace faces a comparable situation regarding their Europa League qualification.
John Textor, the largest shareholder of Crystal Palace, also holds the majority ownership of French club Lyon, who also qualified for the Europa League this season.
Under UEFA rules, Lyon was given priority for entry due to their higher finish in their domestic league, while Crystal Palace qualified by winning the FA Cup.
Palace officials have met with UEFA in Switzerland, arguing that Textor does not hold controlling influence at their club.
A final decision from UEFA is anticipated by the end of June.
Amidst this uncertainty, Textor is reportedly seeking to sell his shares in Crystal Palace.
It has been reported that Woody Johnson, owner of the New York Jets, recently made an offer for Textor`s stake.
Should Textor successfully sell his shares before June 27, it appears likely that Crystal Palace would be permitted to retain their place in the Europa League.
