Drogheda United sit in second place at the midway point of the 2025 Premier Division but face a potential headache regarding their participation in the UEFA Conference League this summer.
The Drogs qualified for Europe due to their exploits in the FAI Cup. They beat Derry City in the final to win a first major trophy in 17 years.
Drogheda United Issue Statement on UEFA Matter
Trivela Group, a US-based sports investment firm, owns 100% of Drogheda United’s shareholdings.
The group also own EFL League Two side Walsall, paving the way for deals such as Douglas James-Taylor’s loan move to the League of Ireland side last year.
However, the Trivela Group has continued to acquire clubs with the acquisition of Silkeborg FC in 2024.
It is here where the potential problems arise for Drogheda United as Silkeborg’s 3-1 win over Randers on Saturday ensures they have qualified for the UEFA Conference League.
UEFA’s Article 5, Integrity of the competition/multi-club ownership states that:
‘No individual or legal entity may have control or influence over more than one club participating in a UEFA club competition.’
Drogheda United have acknowledged the matter through a statement on their official website. The club will not comment any further, stating:
“UEFA’s regulations regarding multi-club ownership and participation in UEFA Club Competitions require careful consideration, and the club has been working proactively with the relevant authorities.
“At this time, due to the confidential and ongoing nature of the process, Drogheda United is unable to provide further comment. However, the club remains committed to transparency and will provide updates as soon as there are any significant developments to share.
“We appreciate the continued support and understanding of our fans, partners, and wider community.”
Could Derry City Benefit From UEFA Exclusion?
There are normally concessions made on shareholdings when there are potential breaches of the UEFA rules around club ownership.
Trivela Group own 80% of the Danish club, meaning they would have to cease their shareholdings below a controlling stake for both teams to compete in the same European competition.
This appears unlikely, so if the worst-case scenario were to take place and Drogheda United were to be excluded from competing in Europe, this may open the door for beaten FAI Cup finalists Derry City, who also finished fourth in the Premier Division in 2024.
The Candystripes would be the next in line to take a place in Europe should the Drogs not be allowed to compete in the UEFA Conference League.
Tiernan Lynch’s team would be the next side in line due to their league position in 2024 and their status as beaten cup finalists.
The draw for the first round of the Conference League qualifiers is set to take place on the 17th of June.
For more League of Ireland coverage, see The Deck’s Premier Division team of the season at the halfway point of the campaign.