July 7, 2026

The Panafrican Press

English-language platform committed to rigorous, independent journalism across the African continent.

Lfp rejects olympique lyonnais’s plea for ligue 1 opener delay

Olympique Lyonnais will not receive any special dispensation as they embark on their European campaign. Not yet fully qualified for the Champions League, OL is first set to compete in a 3rd preliminary round at the beginning of August, with the potential for play-off matches to follow approximately two weeks later.

These crucial play-offs are scheduled to occur just days before the commencement of the Ligue 1 championship, where Paulo Fonseca’s squad is slated to face Toulouse in their inaugural fixture. The Lyon management formally approached the LFP via written correspondence, seeking a deferral of their initial Ligue 1 matchday. The club emphasized the broader interests of French football to bolster its request, highlighting its commitment to national sporting success.

 

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However, the LFP delivered a negative response, declining to reschedule any Ligue 1 fixtures right at the season’s outset. Consequently, Olympique Lyonnais will have to navigate this challenging schedule should they successfully qualify for the play-off stage.