Michele Kang becomes Lyon president after John Textor’s resignation

Michele Kang has been appointed as Lyon president following John Textor’s resignation — a decision that comes amid the club’s relegation crisis due to financial issues.

The 66-year-old American entrepreneur — who is also the majority owner of women’s team OL Lyonnes and has served on Lyon’s board of directors for about two years — will lead the club’s appeal against the relegation decision handed down by DNCG last week.

This situation also impacts Crystal Palace — a club with 43% owned by Textor and set to be sold to New York Jets owner Woody Johnson. UEFA maintains rules prohibiting clubs with the same owner from competing in the same tournament.

“Congratulations to Michele Kang on her appointment as head of OL. This club deserves the best: ambition, passion, and loyalty,” former president Jean-Michel Aulas wrote on social media.

In her role, Kang will be supported by Michael Gerlinger — Eagle Football Holdings’ general manager who brings over two decades of experience in European football governance and regulatory affairs.