Olympique Lyonnais Ordered to Pay €20.8 Million to Botafogo for Unpaid Debts
A Brazilian court has ruled that Olympique Lyonnais must pay €20.8 million to Botafogo for outstanding debts, according to multiple verified sources. The decision stems from financial obligations dating back to when both clubs were under the control of American businessman John Textor.
The judgment, issued by a judge in Brazil, requires Lyon to settle the amount within a specified timeframe. Club officials have three days to file an appeal against the ruling, as confirmed by judicial documents reviewed by international news agencies.
Botafogo initially sought recovery of over €125 million in unpaid debts from Lyon. The court’s first decision favors the Brazilian club for 122 million Brazilian reais, which converts to approximately €20.8 million based on current exchange rates.
Lyon has the option to request a payment plan, including an initial installment of 30% of the total amount, with the remainder to be paid in six monthly installments. This structured approach is outlined in the judicial documentation provided to the French club.
The debt originated from loans arranged during John Textor’s tenure as owner of both Olympique Lyonnais and Botafogo. Textor, who also controlled the Eagle Football Group, facilitated financial transfers between the clubs before his departure from Lyon’s leadership in June 2025.
Since Textor’s exit, Michele Kang, an American businesswoman, has assumed ownership of Olympique Lyonnais. The club remains active in Ligue 1 and is currently competing for a UEFA Champions League qualification spot, adding financial pressure ahead of the upcoming summer transfer window.
Despite the ruling, Lyon has not yet received formal notification of the court decision from Brazilian authorities, according to internal club sources. The validity and enforceability of the judgment in France remain under review by Lyon’s legal team.
Botafogo has simultaneously pursued financial restructuring through Brazilian bankruptcy proceedings, requesting temporary suspension of voting rights for Eagle Football Group as a majority shareholder. The club alleges that Textor’s continued influence has obstructed new investment opportunities.
The ruling adds to Lyon’s ongoing financial scrutiny, particularly as the club navigates potential ownership changes amid interest from parties including Michele Kang’s consortium and other potential investors. The outcome may affect Lyon’s budget allocation for player acquisitions and staff commitments in the coming months.
As of the latest update, Olympique Lyonnais has not issued an official public statement regarding the Brazilian court’s decision. The club continues to focus on its Ligue 1 campaign although assessing legal options in response to the ruling.
For ongoing developments on this financial dispute and its impact on Olympique Lyonnais’ operations, readers are encouraged to follow official club communications and verified sports news outlets.
