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“The decision by UEFA and followed by the Court of Arbitration for Sport shows that sporting merit is rendered meaningless,” Palace, who had qualified for the Europa League as FA Cup winners, said in a statement.
“It appears that certain clubs, organisations and individuals have a unique privilege and power … while we respect the CAS tribunal members, the process is designed to severely restrict and, in our case, make it almost impossible to receive a fair hearing.
“UEFA’s decision has wider implications for the governance of the sport. A combination of poorly conceived regulations and their unequal application means our brilliant fans will be deprived of the chance to watch this team compete in the Europa League for the first time in our history.”
‘NO OBJECTIONS’
CAS said none of the parties raised any concern about the running of the process when Palace’s appeal was heard on Friday.
“CAS rules are long-standing and designed to ensure fairness in the sporting world. In line with this practice, all parties on 8 August 2025 were given a formal opportunity to raise any concern about the running of the process,” said a CAS statement.
“No objections were raised to state that the right to a fair hearing was not respected.”
UEFA was not immediately available to comment.
“Only then will fairness and due process be granted to every team,” Palace added.
“Although we continue to take legal advice on the next steps, we will compete in the Conference League.”
Reporting by Chiranjit Ojha in Bengaluru; Editing by Ken Ferris
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