Drogheda United’s hopes of playing in the 2025-26 UEFA Conference League have been dashed after the Court of Arbitration for Sport dismissed their appeal against UEFA’s decision to expel them from the tournament.
The Irish Premier Division side was ruled ineligible due to a UEFA regulation preventing two clubs under the same ownership from competing in the same European competition.
Both Drogheda and Danish club Silkeborg are owned by US-based Trivela Group.
Although Drogheda secured European qualification by winning the FAI Cup in November 2024 as a semi-professional side, their status was undermined by Silkeborg’s higher standing.
The Danish club, who finished seventh in their domestic league, were favoured under UEFA’s rules, which give priority to the higher-ranked team when ownership conflicts arise. Trivela’s acquisition of Silkeborg occurred after Drogheda’s cup success.
In response to the CAS verdict, Drogheda expressed deep disappointment, stating, “We strongly disagree with this decision, and had hoped and believed that the principles of fairness and common sense would prevail,” the club stated.
“After months of engagement, constructive dialogue, countless hours of legal preparation, and multiple proposals based on frameworks that have been accepted in the past, we have come up short.
“Despite genuine and vocal support across the football world, the ruling did not fall in our favour. We are heartbroken by the outcome.”
UEFA moved its ownership assessment cut-off date to March 1, earlier than the typical June deadline, but CAS found the revised schedule was properly communicated and that Drogheda should have been aware.
Most of the CAS panel also rejected Drogheda’s argument that UEFA had treated them unequally.
The club, currently sitting third in the League of Ireland Premier Division and preparing to face Shamrock Rovers on Monday, called the ruling “unjust.”
“Rules should protect opportunity, not prevent it,” their statement continued.
“Especially for community-driven clubs like ours who fight every day to punch above their weight.
“Nevertheless, we accept responsibility. And we’re sorry. But while we are saddened, we are also emboldened.
“We will not let this setback define us. Instead, we will use it as fuel. Our club has never been handed anything and we’ve earned every inch through grit, resilience, and unity. And we will continue to do so.”
Derry City, who lost to Drogheda in the FAI Cup final, cannot replace them in Europe, having missed the UEFA licensing deadline.
Drogheda’s case mirrors that of Crystal Palace, who are facing scrutiny over their Europa League eligibility.
The Premier League side qualified by winning the FA Cup in May, marking their first-ever European appearance in their 120-year history.
UEFA is now investigating whether a conflict exists due to John Textor’s Eagle Football group, which owns a 43% stake in Palace and has links to other European clubs.
