Europe’s top court has made a significant ruling that exposes UEFA’s abuse of its dominant position in European football. The case brought forward by the Super League project and its backers, A22 Sports, argued that UEFA’s prohibition of the competition and its threatened punishments were in violation of European competition law. In a major boost to the Super League project, the European Court of Justice (ECJ) found that FIFA and UEFA’s rules regarding new football competitions and their control over commercial rights were unlawful. While this ruling does not necessarily approve the Super League, it paves the way for change and highlights the need for transparency, objectivity, and non-discrimination within the football industry.
The ECJ ruling concluded that FIFA and UEFA’s rules lacked a transparent and fair framework, thereby restricting competition in the market. The court stressed that organizing football competitions is an economic activity that must adhere to competition rules and respect freedom of movement. This ruling signifies a breakthrough moment for the Super League project and other potential alternative competitions looking to challenge UEFA’s monopoly. Bernd Reichart, CEO of A22 Sports, celebrated the ruling, proclaiming that clubs are now free from threats and punishments and can shape their own future.
UEFA, in its response to the ECJ ruling, argued that it had already updated its rules following the failed launch of the Super League. It claimed that the court’s ruling highlighted a pre-existing shortfall in UEFA’s pre-authorization framework, which had been addressed in June 2022. UEFA expressed confidence in the robustness of its new rules, asserting compliance with all relevant European laws and regulations. However, the ruling still underscores the need for UEFA to improve its practices to foster fair competition and avoid potential monopolistic tendencies.
The Super League project, which caused shockwaves throughout the football world, initially garnered support from 12 prominent clubs from England, Spain, and Italy. Frustrated by UEFA’s control over the Champions League and dissatisfied with the competition’s format and revenue distribution, these clubs sought an alternative competition. However, strong opposition from governing bodies, fans, and politicians, primarily in England, led to the withdrawal of nine of the clubs, leaving only Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Juventus as public backers of the Super League.
Real Madrid President Florentino Perez expressed his satisfaction with the ECJ ruling, declaring that clubs now have the power to propose and push for European competitions that modernize the sport and attract global fans. Perez emphasized the importance of maintaining compatibility with national competitions, prioritizing sporting merit and effective financial fair play. This ruling marks the end of an era dominated by UEFA and grants the clubs, players, and fans the authority to shape the present and future of European football.
Barcelona also expressed its satisfaction with the court’s ruling, highlighting the potential for a new elite-level football competition in Europe. The club recognized the opportunity for a fresh start and the need for increased competition within the football ecosystem. While the Super League project did not succeed in its initial form, the ECJ ruling opens doors for reevaluation and the creation of a more inclusive and meritocratic competition.
The case brought before the ECJ originated from a lawsuit filed by the Super League in a Spanish court, seeking protection against possible UEFA sanctions. The Spanish judge granted a preliminary injunction, ultimately leading the case to the court in Luxembourg. A22 Sports, with Bernd Reichart at the helm since October 2022, has been working to relaunch and rebrand the Super League with a more transparent and open format. They have pledged to broadcast all Super League games for free, ensuring club income and solidarity payments remain guaranteed.
The ECJ ruling against UEFA’s dominant control in European football represents a turning point in the industry. It emphasizes the need for fair competition, transparency, and objectivity in organizing football competitions. While the Super League project may have faced setbacks, this ruling emboldens other potential challengers and sets a precedent for change. The power to shape the future of European football now rests in the hands of clubs, players, and fans, fostering a more inclusive and competitive landscape in the sport.