Crystal Palace’s Europa League hopes have been saved thanks to a significant ownership change. John Textor, who previously held a 45% stake in the club, has sold his shares to Woody Johnson, the owner of the New York Jets. This move comes after concerns that Palace could face removal from European competition due to Textor’s dual ownership of the club and Ligue 1 side Lyon.
The Eagles made headlines by defeating Manchester City in the 2025 FA Cup final, earning a spot in the Europa League for the upcoming season. However, UEFA’s regulations on multi-club ownership threatened their participation in the tournament. Textor’s sale of his stake in Palace to Johnson has resolved this issue, allowing the club to proceed with their Europa League campaign.
The deal between Textor and Johnson is reported to be valued at around €200 million (£171m/$230m). Negotiations between the two parties took place over several weeks, with Palace closely monitoring the situation following their FA Cup victory. By finalizing the ownership transfer in time for European registration deadlines, Textor has ensured Palace’s eligibility for the upcoming season.
Woody Johnson, whose net worth is estimated at $3.3 billion (£4.4bn), now joins the growing list of North American investors in British football. This trend has seen prominent figures such as Ryan Reynolds, Rob McElhenney, Tom Brady, Michael B Jordan, JJ Watt, the Glazer family, and 49ers Enterprises getting involved in various clubs across the UK.
The acquisition of Crystal Palace by Johnson marks a significant development in the club’s history and opens up new possibilities for their future in European competition. With a strong financial backing and support from an experienced sports owner, Palace fans can look forward to exciting times ahead. The partnership between Johnson and the club signals a new era for Palace, as they aim to build on their recent success and establish themselves as a competitive force in both domestic and continental football.
In conclusion, the sale of Textor’s shares to Johnson has not only secured Crystal Palace’s participation in the Europa League but also set the stage for a promising future under new ownership. The club’s fans can now eagerly anticipate what lies ahead with renewed optimism and enthusiasm.
With the recent ownership change at Crystal Palace, fans of the club are buzzing with excitement and anticipation for what the future holds. Woody Johnson’s acquisition of John Textor’s shares not only safeguards the team’s place in the Europa League but also signals a new chapter in the club’s history.
Johnson’s vast wealth and experience as the owner of the New York Jets bring a sense of stability and ambition to Crystal Palace. His entry into British football adds to the growing number of American investors making their mark in the sport. This trend reflects the global appeal and financial opportunities that football offers, drawing interest from high-profile individuals across the pond.
The influx of American ownership in British football brings a fresh perspective and innovative ideas to the clubs they are involved with. With Johnson at the helm, Crystal Palace can expect strategic investments, improved facilities, and enhanced recruitment strategies to elevate their performance on the pitch.
Furthermore, Johnson’s connections and business acumen could potentially open doors for lucrative sponsorship deals and commercial partnerships for Crystal Palace. This influx of resources not only benefits the club financially but also enhances their brand visibility and global reach, attracting new fans and opportunities along the way.
The synergy between Johnson’s vision for the club and the aspirations of Palace fans creates a sense of unity and purpose moving forward. With a shared goal of success in both domestic and European competitions, the stage is set for exciting times ahead at Selhurst Park.
As Crystal Palace gears up for their Europa League campaign, the ownership change injects a sense of optimism and renewed energy into the club. Fans can expect a reinvigorated team, driven by ambition and supported by a strong foundation laid by Johnson’s leadership.
In conclusion, the transition from Textor to Johnson marks a pivotal moment in Crystal Palace’s journey, one that promises growth, success, and resilience in the face of challenges. With a new owner at the helm, the Eagles soar towards a bright future filled with possibilities and potential for greatness on the football pitch.
