PSG extends a helping hand to their arch-rivals from the threat of relegation.
Lyon has just announced the successful appeal against the DNCG's decision to relegate them to Ligue 2, with a large part of the credit reportedly coming from financial support from rivals PSG.
Two weeks ago, DNCG announced Lyon's relegation to the second division due to a massive debt of 175 million euros, stemming from poor financial management by the club's leadership and wage bill far exceeding the budget.
Despite recruiting many star players with lucrative salaries, Lyon consistently failed to qualify for the Champions League, leading to a revenue shortfall needed to repay debts. After numerous warnings from the Football Association without improvement, Lyon was forced to face relegation.
To salvage the situation, Lyon actively restructured its finances, raising 56 million euros from selling players, including the transfer of Rayan Cherki to Manchester City for 35 million euros, along with Said Benrahma, Johann Lepenant, and several others.
The club also offloaded a number of high-paid players and has not spent any money on recruiting new players. Owner John Textor, through Eagle Football Group, has also sold off his stake in another club to focus resources on saving Lyon.
Notably, according to sources, PSG is believed to have played a crucial role in helping Lyon turn the tide. In the 2023/24 season, PSG signed Bradley Barcola from Lyon for €50 million, payable in installments.
However, the Parisian club reportedly paid the entire amount upfront instead of in installments as originally agreed, giving Lyon additional financial resources to meet the stringent requirements of the DNCG.
Although this information has not been confirmed by either side, PSG's move is seen as a key factor in Lyon's successful appeal and maintaining their position in Ligue 1.
PSG's financial support for Lyon not only helps this historically rich club stay in Ligue 1 but also contributes to maintaining the attractiveness of France's top league.
According to analyses, Lyon's relegation to Ligue 2 could reduce the competitiveness and appeal of Ligue 1. A clear example is the match between PSG and Lyon at the Parc des Princes in the 2024/25 season, which attracted 47,926 spectators – a number far exceeding PSG's high-profile matches against Liverpool and Arsenal in the Champions League. Lyon's presence clearly brings significant value to the league.
In top-level football, it's not uncommon for big clubs to financially support their rivals, especially between fierce competitors.
Historically, in 2003, Bayern Munich provided Borussia Dortmund with 2 million euros to help them pay players' salaries on time, saving their rival from bankruptcy.
Similarly, from the 1950s to the 1990s, Liverpool regularly provided financial support to Everton, helping their city rivals overcome difficult periods.