Olympique Lyonnais won a Ligue 1 win for the 2025-2026 season after an intense legal battle. The decision of the DNCG Appeal Board, confirmed by the FFF, overturned the administrative demotion that had originally been pronounced. This victory was the result of an important mobilization of the new management of the club, led by Michele Kang and Michael Gerlinger, who managed to present a reassuring financial plan. However, this maintenance is accompanied by budgetary restrictions, including a salary bill and transfer payments framework imposed by the DNCG. The new management expressed its gratitude to the Appeal Board and stressed the importance of this decision to restore confidence in the club, thus allowing it to focus on future sporting objectives.

OL’s retention in Ligue 1 is also marked by the loss of its partnership with Groupama, which would not be renewed. Despite this, the club can now look forward with some optimism. The new management made every effort to secure this retention, with the participation of nine of its officials at the DNCG hearing. This mobilization demonstrates the crucial stake of this situation for the future of the club. OL will even be able to recruit from this summer, although financial restraint measures are in place. This victory is seen as an essential step in ensuring the club’s sustainability in the elite of French football.

The announcement of OL’s continued existence aroused great emotion among fans, illustrated by the anecdote of a fan who offered to sell his car to raise funds for the club. This initiative demonstrates the strong commitment of supporters to OL and their hope for the future. Despite the continued financial difficulties, the club is preparing to play its 37th consecutive season in Ligue 1, with a first game against RC Lens on August 17. The future remains uncertain, but the essential thing is assured: Olympique Lyonnais will continue to evolve in the elite of French football, with the ambition to overcome the challenges ahead.