Aston Villa owners V Sports have reduced their stake in Portugal's Vitoria.

The decision has been made after both clubs qualified for Europe next season.

UEFA's Article 5 regulations prohibit an individual controlling decisions and having influence at more than one club competing in Europe.

It was announced on Villa's website today: "V Sports has today announced that it has reduced its stake in Vitoria Sport Clube – Futebol, SAD to 29% by transferring shares equalling 17% of the club's total equity back to Vitoria SC.

"It also no longer has any representation on the board of directors of Vitoria Sport Clube – Futebol, SAD in order to comply with all UEFA regulations and ensure the independence of both Vitoria Sport Clube – Futebol, SAD and Aston Villa FC."