Stade de Reims have been given a lifeline back into Ligue 1 following the DNCG’s decision to relegate Olympique Lyonnais to Ligue 2 due to financial mismanagement. As the highest finishing relegated team, they would stand to benefit if Lyon’s relegation is upheld. 

And while this sounds like an ideal situation for the Champagne club, RMC Sport reports that there are serious headaches attached to remaining in the top flight. Namely, Reims have already been before the DNCG and presented their budget for the upcoming season. 

At a minimum, the drop down to the second tier has seen Reims slash their previous budget (estimated to be €60 million) in half, with the club expected to have presented a budget of €25-30 million to the watchdog. 

Reims have achieved this by reducing season ticket prices and lowering their financial demands from sponsors. They have also shaped their recruitment around bringing in players who would help them earn promotion back to Ligue 1. 

If Lyon fail their appeals and are relegated, Reims will have to go before the DNCG and present a new budget for operating in Ligue 1. A task that RMC Sport explains will be difficult to achieve.