Crystal Palace are on the brink of their first-ever European campaign after qualifying for the UEFA Europa League. However, their participation is now in doubt due to UEFA’s strict multi-club ownership rules.
The regulations prevent individuals from having influence over more than one club in the same European competition. This presents a dilemma for Palace, as co-owner John Textor also controls French side Lyon, who have also secured a Europa League spot.
To resolve the conflict, Textor may be forced to sell his Palace shares—possibly at a discounted rate—to co-owners Steve Parish, Josh Harris, and David Blitzer. This would allow Palace to comply with UEFA rules and keep their European hopes alive.
Recently, the club’s ownership group visited UEFA headquarters to argue that Textor does not hold controlling influence over the FA Cup-winning team. No decision was reached, but a ruling is expected as early as next week.
Textor’s football portfolio spans multiple clubs, including Brazil’s Botafogo and Belgium’s RWD Molenbeek, through his Eagle Football Holdings. While Palace are not officially part of this group, Textor holds a 45% stake in the London club.
Although he once aimed for full control of Palace, Textor is now reportedly willing to sell his shares at a massive loss—less than 25% of their market value—if that’s what it takes to ensure Palace can participate in next season’s Europa League.
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