Olympique Lyonnais has resumed training since June 29 in preparation for the third qualifying round of the UEFA Champions League, scheduled for August 4 or 5 (first leg) and August 11 (return leg). In the event of success, Paulo Fonseca’s team would then play the playoffs, scheduled within the following two weeks.

With this in mind, and specifying that the request would only apply in case of qualification for the playoffs, Lyon’s management sent a formal letter to the LFP (Ligue de Football Professionnel) requesting the postponement of their first Ligue 1 match, which would see them travel to Toulouse on Saturday, August 22 — a date falling between the two legs of a potential playoff.

An argument based on precedent: Just as Paris Saint-Germain did last season, Olympique Lyonnais emphasized the superior interests of French football to support its request.

The governing body’s response arrived in the evening — and it was negative. The LFP’s Board of Directors, which met via videoconference on Monday, rejected Lyon’s request in a vote. One of the main arguments cited was the impracticality of scheduling a first matchday with a gap, especially as Ligue 1+ will now broadcast all fixtures.