UEFA's head of women's football, Nadine Kessler, has drawn a firm line on multi-club ownership in the Women's Champions League. She stated that clubs sharing an owner will not be allowed to compete against each other, regardless of investment levels. The ruling targets growing consolidation in women's football.

The declaration directly affects Michele Kang, who owns eight-time UWCL champion Lyonnes, facing Barcelona in Saturday's final. Kang also controls London City Lionesses and Washington Spirit. Lyonnes have dominated French football for nearly two decades, winning every league title since 2007 except 2021.

London City finished sixth this season in the WSL, 22 points off third place. Champions League qualification would require a top-three finish, but UEFA's Article 5 prohibits any individual from having influence over multiple participating clubs. Sources told ESPN the Lionesses have been exploring workarounds.

Kessler insisted the competition must remain "100% fair" and that no exceptions will be made for women's football. With other multi-club groups like Crux Sports, Mercury13, and Bay Collective also active, the ruling sets a clear precedent for the sport's governance.