European Court of Justice ruled in 2023 that UEFA’s restrictions on rival competitions could breach EU competition law.
UEFA confirmed on Thursday that it has held informal discussions with A22 Sports Management, the company behind efforts to revive a European Super League, but reiterated that there are no plans to alter the format of its premier club competition.
“We can confirm reports that UEFA General Secretary Mr. Theodore Theodoridis met with A22 Sports Management co-founder Mr. Anas Laghrari on a few occasions in public settings,” UEFA told Reuters.
“No formal outcomes resulted from these conversations,” the organisation added, stressing: “We categorically reaffirm that there are no plans to change the format of the UEFA Champions League.”
Earlier on Thursday, media outlets reported that A22 had entered exploratory talks with UEFA officials regarding a potential framework for a new competition.
According to those reports, A22 is advocating its so-called “Unify League” project, which would feature 96 clubs across four divisions with promotion and relegation. The company is seeking UEFA’s recognition of the concept.
A22 has promoted the Unify League as a merit-based and fan-oriented alternative to existing tournaments, pledging free match streaming and broader opportunities for smaller clubs.
The reports said A22’s chief executive, Bernd Reichart, and co-founder Anas Laghrari had sought to frame the proposal as complementary to domestic leagues rather than a direct rival to UEFA’s competitions.
However, football bodies and national leagues have consistently opposed the idea, warning that it could undermine the European football pyramid.
The original Super League project collapsed in 2021 after a backlash from fans, governments and the wider football community.
Twelve major clubs initially signed up to the breakaway competition, which was to guarantee them permanent membership, but nine quickly withdrew.
The concept was later revived by A22 after the European Court of Justice ruled in 2023 that UEFA’s restrictions on rival competitions could breach EU competition law.
