Lyon’s American owner, John Textor, launched a scathing critique of Nasser Al Khelaifi, the Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) president, and Vincent Labrune, the head of Ligue 1, during an interview on French radio station RMC on Monday.
Textor’s comments centered on accusations of conflicts of interest and undue influence exerted by Al Khelaifi in French football governance.
“Lapdog” Allegations Against Labrune
Among his pointed remarks, Textor referred to Labrune as PSG’s “lapdog,” highlighting the close relationship between Labrune and Al Khelaifi, who also heads the BeIN Media Group.
According to Textor, this dynamic undermines the impartiality of Ligue 1 decision-making processes.
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Textor, who also holds stakes in Crystal Palace, Botafogo, and Molenbeek, expressed frustration over the perceived conflicts of interest stemming from Al Khelaifi‘s dual roles.
“I wasn’t aware of the institutional protection he enjoys. I was shocked to discover the dominance of this one man [Al Khelaifi] in the European Club Association and UEFA’s executive committee,” Textor stated during the interview with former PSG and France midfielder Jérôme Rothen on RMC.
Claims of Intimidation in Ligue 1 Meetings
Textor described an incident in a Ligue 1 presidents’ meeting to discuss TV rights deals, alleging that Al Khelaifi ran the discussion instead of Labrune, who he claimed remained silent.
“Nasser, who shouldn’t have been in the meeting due to his vested interests, dominated the conversation.
Every time someone proposed an alternative idea, he barked at them, intimidating and bullying. And the league president just sat there like a lapdog,” said Textor.
An Ongoing Feud
The rift between Textor and Al Khelaifi has been simmering since Textor acquired Lyon in June 2022.
He has been outspoken about the influence PSG wields in Ligue 1 and the conflicts of interest stemming from Al Khelaifi’s leadership at BeIN Sport.
Textor further remarked, “I wasn’t aware of how deeply PSG influences the league and even the DNCG [French football’s financial regulator]. This level of control is unacceptable.”
Ligue 1 Responds
Later on Monday, Ligue 1 issued a statement addressing Textor’s allegations, expressing surprise at his remarks. The statement read, in part,
“We were surprised by John Textor’s comments. We are even more amazed at the language used, especially after what was a cordial discussion earlier today.”
Silence from Al Khelaifi
Despite multiple attempts by Media to reach Al Khelaifi for comment, the PSG president has not responded to Textor’s accusations.
Historical Context
PSG and Lyon have a history of fierce competition, with PSG defeating Lyon 2-1 in the 2024 French Cup final—a match that marked Kylian Mbappé’s final game for PSG before his move to Real Madrid.
This unfolding feud highlights the tensions within Ligue 1 as power dynamics and governance continue to face scrutiny, raising questions about the league’s ability to ensure fairness and transparency in its operations.
