Drogheda United's hopes of participating in the 2025-26 UEFA Conference League have been dashed after the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) upheld UEFA's decision to expel the Irish club. The ruling stems from a UEFA regulation that prohibits two clubs under the same ownership from competing in the same tournament. Drogheda, owned by the US-based Trivela Group, which also owns Danish side Silkeborg, was deemed the lower-ranked team and thus excluded from the competition.

In a heartfelt statement, Drogheda United expressed their profound disappointment and disbelief at the CAS decision. The club emphasized their disagreement with the ruling, having hoped for a fair and sensible outcome. Despite months of legal preparation, constructive dialogue, and multiple proposals based on previously accepted frameworks, Drogheda's efforts were in vain.

The club highlighted the overwhelming support they received from the football community, which made the unfavorable ruling even more disheartening. Drogheda United, who clinched the FAI Cup in November 2024 as a semi-professional team, now faces the challenge of regrouping and focusing on domestic competitions.

This incident underscores the complexities and stringent regulations within European football, particularly concerning club ownership and competition integrity. Drogheda United's expulsion serves as a stark reminder of the hurdles smaller clubs face in the broader football landscape.