The French top-flight governing body is already managing a packed schedule. While Olympique Lyonnais is set to kick off their Ligue 1 campaign at Toulouse on August 22, the club has formally asked for the match to be rescheduled. The request stems from potential UEFA Champions League qualifying matches that could overlap with Ligue 1 commitments.

Under Paul Fonseca’s management, Olympique Lyonnais is slated to begin Champions League qualifying with a first leg on August 4 or 5, followed by a return leg on August 11. If the club progresses further, additional midweek Champions League playoff matches would be inserted between two Ligue 1 fixtures. This request aligns with similar appeals made by Paris Saint-Germain and Strasbourg in previous seasons. However, the Ligue de Football Professionnel has declined Olympique Lyonnais’ request.

Undisturbed Ligue 1 opening day

In a Monday evening virtual meeting, the LFP’s board of directors unanimously rejected Lyon’s proposal, as confirmed by industry sources. The governing body emphasized its commitment to maintaining an uninterrupted Ligue 1 season kickoff. Notably, next season’s French top-flight fixtures will be exclusively broadcast on the Ligue 1+ platform.

In the event Olympique Lyonnais qualifies for Champions League playoffs, they will be required to fit their Toulouse league match between two continental fixtures, creating a challenging logistical hurdle.