UEFA, the European governing body, has affirmed its confidence in thwarting future attempts to create a European Super League (ESL) despite losing a significant court case.
The European Court of Justice (ECJ) ruled that UEFA and FIFA acted unlawfully in their efforts to prevent clubs from participating in the ESL. The breakaway league, launched in April 2021, faced widespread condemnation and withdrawals from several major clubs.
In a statement, UEFA emphasized that the ECJ’s decision did not endorse or validate the so-called “super league.” Instead, it highlighted a pre-existing shortfall within UEFA’s pre-authorization framework, which UEFA claims has been acknowledged and addressed in June 2022. UEFA expressed confidence in the robustness of its new rules, asserting their compliance with all relevant European laws and regulations.
UEFA remains resolute in its commitment to upholding the European football pyramid and serving the broader interests of society. The governing body intends to shape the European sports model collectively with various stakeholders, including national associations, leagues, clubs, fans, players, coaches, EU institutions, governments, and partners. UEFA trusts that the solidarity-based European football pyramid, declared as an irreplaceable model by fans and stakeholders, will be safeguarded against the threat of breakaways by European and national laws.
A press conference is scheduled for 1:00 pm GMT, where UEFA is expected to provide further insights into the implications of the court’s decision. Barcelona and Real Madrid have already applauded the ruling, with Real Madrid president Florentino Perez calling it a “great day for the history of football,” while Barcelona expressed “satisfaction” and reiterated its opposition to the perceived “monopoly” within European and world football.
