Crystal Palace are clinging to a renewed sense of optimism in their bid to secure a place in the 2025/26 UEFA Europa League, following their shock demotion to the UEFA Conference League due to a breach of UEFA’s multi-club ownership (MCO) rules. The South London club, fresh off their historic FA Cup victory over Manchester City in May 2025, which earned them a Europa League spot, are now appealing the decision at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). With new evidence suggesting UEFA’s ownership deadlines may be more flexible than initially thought, Palace’s fight to reclaim their place in Europe’s second-tier competition is gaining traction.
A Glimmer of Hope
Palace’s appeal to CAS, expected to be expedited ahead of the Europa League group stage draw on 29th August, has been bolstered by a potential game-changer. According to The Telegraph, an email sent by the European Club Association (ECA) to multi-club groups in October 2024 suggests that UEFA’s 1st March deadline for resolving MCO conflicts may not be as rigid as previously assumed. The ECA reportedly indicated that clubs could address ownership issues as late as 31st May, offering Palace a lifeline to argue that their ongoing ownership restructuring, via Textor’s share sale, should exempt them from demotion.
Palace’s legal case hinges on two key points. First, they argue that Textor’s 43% stake did not grant him decisive control, as Parish, Harris, and Blitzer collectively manage the club’s operations. Second, Textor’s agreement to sell his shares, combined with his resignation from leadership roles at Lyon on 30th June, demonstrates compliance with UEFA’s rules, even if finalized after the 1st March deadline. The club contends that the ECA’s communication about a flexible 31st May deadline supports their position, potentially allowing CAS to overturn UEFA’s ruling.
