CAS ruling on Palace appeal awaits

Crystal Palace's CAS appeal over UEFA's multi club ownership ruling could decide Nottingham Forest's European status this season

Crystal Palace owner issues update from court as Nottingham Forest await Europa League fate

Crystal Palace’s appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport over UEFA's punishment for multi club ownership is being heard as Nottingham Forest wait to learn if they will play in the Europa League this season. Forest were promoted into the Europa League as a result of Palace’s breach, a consequence Palace has challenged.

Palace owner Steve Parish spoke after the hearing, acknowledging that it is hard to be confident given the circumstances and the sense of a dystopian moment around the case. Forest were represented in court, and the mood outside contrasted with Palace supporters’ hopes. The ruling could determine which club earns the European place and the path they will take, with the competition format outlining potential routes to the group stage or a play-off against another team depending on the final decision. Experts have noted that the case raises questions about how governance and ownership structures are treated in European football, and whether existing rules are applied consistently.

This case pulls back the curtain on how football triggers affect real teams and careers. A single decision from CAS can reshape season plans for two clubs and influence investor confidence in the sport. It also tests how UEFA rules are interpreted when more than one club shares ownership or influence.

If CAS sides with Palace, the case could broaden how clubs argue for flexibility within ownership rules and set a precedent for future cross club ties. If CAS rules for Forest, UEFA's current framework would appear to be upheld, reinforcing the authority of the governing body. Either way, the decision will feed a broader debate about transparency, accountability, and the balance between business ambitions and sporting fairness in football.

Highlights

The CAS verdict will echo beyond this case and shape how clubs balance ownership with fair play.