Olympique Lyonnais (OL) is preparing for a major financial challenge to try to avoid relegation to Ligue 2. Following an appeal from the decision of the National Directorate of Management Control (DNCG), the club will have to convince the appeal commission of the Fédération Française de Football (FFF) during a hearing scheduled for 10 July. A team composed of JohnTextorsur, MicheleKang and MichaelGerlinger will take on this arduous task, with strong arguments to reverse the demotion decision. For the past week, the new presidency, its governing team and advisers like ChrisMallon have been fully involved in this battle for the club’s survival.

The key to this rescue effort is OL’s ability to mobilize considerable financial resources. According to the information reported by The Team, the appeal board will mainly expect substantial funding. Although sources mentioned potential financial plans on 24 June, OL will need to inject nearly EUR 100 million into its treasury to present a convincing dossier. This sum must be available immediately upon submission of the appeal. Furthermore, like all Ligue 1 clubs, OL will have to commit to provide an additional €100 million to meet the financial obligations of the upcoming season.

In order to meet the appeal board’s requirements, MicheleKang and MichaelGerlinger will have to provide written evidence of a firm bank commitment, such as an agreement or a blocked account. Maintaining Ligue 1 will therefore be extremely costly for OL, requiring the mobilisation of all available resources. The success of this approach will depend on the club’s ability to demonstrate its financial strength and commitment to meeting the league’s financial obligations. The future of the Lyon club is suspended from this crucial financial battle.