Lyon Challenges Paulo Fonseca’s 9-Month Suspension

Olympique Lyonnais has initiated legal proceedings to contest the nine-month touchline ban imposed on their manager, Paulo Fonseca. The Portuguese coach received the suspension following an altercation with referee Benoît Millot during Lyon’s recent 2-1 victory over Stade Brestois.

The French Professional Football League (LFP) handed down the severe punishment, which prohibits Fonseca from the sidelines until November 30 and bars him from the dressing room before, during, and after matches until September 15. This ban does not extend to European competitions.

Lyon strongly criticized the LFP’s decision, describing it as “extremely severe” and “unprecedented.” The club expressed concern that the sanction seemed influenced by the current tense atmosphere surrounding refereeing in French football.

Initially planning to appeal through the LFP, Lyon has now decided to seek mediation via the French National Olympic and Sports Committee (CNOSF). Depending on the outcome, the club may pursue further action through the administrative court system.

The club’s legal team argues that preventing Fonseca from accessing the dressing room during matches effectively impedes his ability to perform his job. This sentiment is echoed by FC Nantes manager Antoine Kombouaré, who voiced similar concerns when Fonseca’s ban was announced.

As the situation unfolds, Lyon remains committed to exploring all available options to challenge what they perceive as an unjust and disproportionate punishment for their newly appointed manager.