Introduction
Drogheda UEFA ban supporters are reeling after UEFA expelled the club from the 2025-26 UEFA Conference League due to shared ownership with Danish side Silkeborg. The ruling, upheld by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), leaves fans frustrated and disillusioned, calling the decision a “kick in the teeth” and a “farce”.
Controversial Multi-Club Ownership Rule
UEFA rules prohibit two clubs with the same owner from participating in the same European competition. US-based Trivela Group, which owns both Drogheda and Silkeborg, triggered this conflict. Despite Drogheda’s impressive FAI Cup victory in November 2024, Silkeborg’s seventh-place finish in Denmark’s league took precedence due to UEFA’s club ranking system.
Drogheda’s appeal to CAS argued unequal treatment and procedural unfairness but was ultimately rejected. The panel ruled that UEFA’s decision was properly communicated, especially after UEFA advanced its assessment date from June to 1 March 2025.
Fan Reaction: ‘Deflated, Numb and Frustrated’
The ruling has sent shockwaves through the Drogheda fanbase. Supporter Dave Carabini described feeling “deflated, numb and frustrated.” Despite the crushing news, the atmosphere at Monday night’s league game against Shamrock Rovers remained electric as fans rallied behind the team.
“We will back the team no matter what,” Carabini said, echoing the resilience of many supporters.
‘A Very Sad Day’
Fellow fan Jake Davies expressed his shock, calling it a “very sad day.” For Davies, missing out on the chance to see Drogheda play in Europe for the first time was particularly painful. “We need to start thinking about multi-club ownership and prepare better for next year,” he added.
‘Absolutely Sickened’
Another fan, Eoin Reid, said he was “absolutely sickened” by the announcement. “European nights are what everyone dreams about,” he said. While there was an “electric atmosphere” around town on Monday, many locals were left too stunned to speak.
Local Reporter: ‘Fans Are Standing Strong’
Football journalist Barry Landy reported a sense of defiance among Drogheda fans, with anti-UEFA and anti-FAI chants filling the stadium. “There hasn’t been too much anger at the owners, but a mood of deflation hangs over the club,” Landy noted. He also praised the owners for their transparency amid the controversy.
Drogheda’s Statement: ‘Heartbreak and Disbelief’
In an official statement, Drogheda United expressed “great heartbreak and disbelief” at the CAS decision:
“We strongly disagree with this decision, and had hoped that fairness and common sense would prevail… Despite genuine and vocal support across the football world, the ruling did not fall in our favour. We are heartbroken by the outcome.”
The Road Ahead
This controversy has reignited debate over UEFA’s multi-club ownership rules, which are increasingly coming under scrutiny as global investors expand their football portfolios. For now, Drogheda United and its loyal fanbase must turn their attention back to domestic competitions and rebuild hopes for future European adventures.
Written by Barry O’Connor, BBC News NI
UEFA’s multi-club ownership rules are increasingly coming under scrutiny as global investors expand their football portfolios. Read UEFA’s official stance on multi-club ownership here.
Related Story: More on UEFA’s strict ownership rules
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