Nice demotion hands Metz lifeline
Thursday, June 27, 2002
Article summary
FC Metz remain in the French top-flight after OGC Nice failed to overturn a demotion decision.
Article body
OGC Nice have had their appeal against relegation to the French third division rejected - a decision that preserves FC Metz's top-flight status.
Court of appeal confirmation
The French Football Federation's court of appeal has confirmed last month's decision by the federation's financial committee, who ruled that Nice had not proved they had sufficient funds to play in the first division.
Demotion to the third division
As a consequence Nice, who finished third in the second division last season to win promotion, were demoted to the third division while Metz, who were relegated after finishing 17th in the 18-strong first division, were allowed to stay in the top flight.
Metz delighted
Wednesday's decision delighted Metz, whose sports manager Patrik Razurel said: "It's a miracle. We had lost hope and this very morning I was making plans for the second division season."
Further appeal
However, Nice have anounced on their official website that they will appeal against the decision to the French National Olympic Committee (CNOSF), which has a power of arbitration and could send the case back to the FFF.
