Drogheda’s Conference League Appeal Fails Due to Ownership Issues

According to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) ruling, Irish Cup winners Drogheda United failed in their appeal to participate in next season’s Conference League. The decision relates to UEFA rule violations regarding multiple club ownership.

CAS announced the rejection of Drogheda’s appeal during Monday’s hearing — one day before UEFA conducts the qualifying round draw for this third-tier European competition. The issue arose because both Drogheda and Denmark’s Silkeborg are owned by the US investment group, Trivela Group.

UEFA rules prohibit clubs under the same ownership from appearing in the same competition to maintain match integrity. Drogheda also failed to meet the March 1 deadline set by UEFA to resolve their ownership structure issues.

Silkeborg received priority for Conference League participation due to their higher finish in the Danish league compared to Drogheda’s position in the Irish league. As a result, Drogheda loses €350,000 in UEFA prize money.

“We believe it is unjust. Rules should protect opportunity, not prevent it. Nevertheless, we accept responsibility and we’re sorry,” stated Drogheda’s official statement.