Drogheda Expelled from Conference League over Multi-Club Ownership

Irish Cup winner Drogheda United has been expelled from the 2025-26 UEFA Conference League after losing an urgent appeal at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) due to UEFA's rules against multi-club ownership. Drogheda and Danish side Silkeborg are both owned by the U.S.-based Trivela Group, and UEFA regulations prohibit clubs with the same owner having decisive influence from competing in the same tournament. Silkeborg secured the Conference League spot based on their higher league finish, while Drogheda missed a UEFA deadline to alter ownership or executive structure, resulting in their disqualification and loss of at least €350,000 in prize money. Drogheda expressed deep disappointment and heartbreak over the ruling, disputing its fairness and emphasizing the emotional and financial impact on the club and community. Past cases involving clubs like Manchester City and AC Milan were resolved by placing ownership stakes in blind trusts, but Drogheda's proposals were ultimately not accepted. UEFA is also reviewing similar ownership issues involving Crystal Palace and Lyon for the next Europa League season.