Ligue 1: Olympique lyonnais is still in a critical financial situation according to its owner

Eagle Football Group, the owner of the Olympique Lyonnais (OL) football club, confirmed that the club is still in a “financially critical situation” but praised a “significant improvement in operational performance.”

The group acknowledged the financial challenges six months after announcing record losses and debts that almost led the club to relegation in Ligue 2. The semi-annual results for the 2025-2026 season were released, revealing a net loss of 186.5 million euros. The situation is attributed to past financial commitments, and the group highlighted the urgent need to secure financing and restructuring solutions.

Despite the financial difficulties, there was a notable improvement in operational performance, excluding debt charges and taxes. The group reported a positive operating income of -2.2 million euros, a substantial improvement from the previous period. EFG is banking on the arrival of a new shareholder to address the financing needs by June 2026. The company’s CEO and minority shareholder, American businesswoman Michele Kang, is considering a bid to acquire Eagle Bidco’s shares.

In a separate development, John Textor, the former CEO of Eagle Football Group, was removed after the holding company was placed under administration in the UK. Textor’s financial decisions and undisclosed commitments were blamed for the company’s financial woes, leading to a substantial increase in debt. Ares, an American investment fund, intervened by appointing Michele Kang to lead the company and potentially acquire it from John Textor. Ares, a major creditor of the club, plays a crucial role in its future financial stability.