A group of Liberal Democrat MPs have called on Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy to address UEFA's "disgraceful" decision to demote Crystal Palace from the Europa League due to violations of multi-club ownership rules.
The seven London-based politicians, including party leader Sir Ed Davey, expressed "deep concern" in a letter regarding what they termed "a highly unusual and severe punishment" that raises serious questions about the fairness and transparency in English football governance.
The Eagles, who secured their Europa League spot by winning the FA Cup in May—marking their first major trophy—were relegated to the Conference League last Friday.
According to UEFA regulations, clubs owned by the same entity or individual beyond a certain level of influence cannot participate in the same European competition.
American businessman John Textor owns a stake in Crystal Palace and is the majority owner of French club Lyon, both of which qualified for the Europa League.
UEFA's rules stipulate a deadline of March 1, 2025, to demonstrate the restructuring of multi-club ownership, a deadline Crystal Palace failed to meet.
In a letter acquired by BBC Sport, the Liberal Democrats described the situation as "heart-breaking for fans."
"Other clubs seem to endure much longer disputes with less severe outcomes," they noted. "Many believe the process has been opaque and disproportionately punitive, risking not only the club's achievements but also public confidence in the fairness of football governance."
Nandy was urged to ensure "the decision-making process is reviewed for transparency and fairness" and that "the club is given a fair opportunity to appeal or respond to any allegations."
Nottingham Forest, who finished seventh in the Premier League last season, is set to replace Crystal Palace in the Europa League.
On Tuesday, Crystal Palace supporters protested UEFA's decision, with hundreds marching to Selhurst Park carrying banners and chanting against European football's governing body.
Meanwhile, Palace Chairman Steve Parish has confirmed the club will appeal UEFA's decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
"We are still fighting," Parish stated on The Rest is Football podcast. "There's an appeal process, so we go to CAS, and we're very hopeful. We believe we have strong legal arguments."
"We don't think this is the right decision by any means. We know unequivocally that John didn't have decisive influence over the club. We know we proved that beyond all reasonable doubt because it's a fact."
Textor is currently in the process of selling his stake in Crystal Palace to New York Jets owner Woody Johnson.
UEFA has been approached for comment.