The Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) declared that Uefa and Fifa acted unlawfully by prohibiting clubs from participating in the European Super League (ESL).
The court determined that both football governing bodies were “abusing a dominant position” and breaching competition law by threatening sanctions against those considering joining the breakaway league.
The European Union’s highest court sided with the breakaway league, emphasising that the ruling didn’t automatically endorse the approval of a breakaway competition.
In response, Uefa expressed confidence in the robustness of its rules, ensuring compliance with European laws. The verdict challenges the authority of Uefa and Fifa in overseeing the sport.
The ESL backers, including A22, released revamped proposals following the ruling, introducing a women’s European tournament.
A promotion and relegation-based league structure comprising 64 clubs divided among three men’s leagues and 32 clubs divided among two women’s leagues is the new proposal.
Barcelona, an initial ESL participant, sees the verdict as paving the way for a new competition.
Bernd Reichart, CEO of A22, proclaimed the ESL’s victory, saying that football was now freed from Uefa’s monopoly.
He claimed that clubs have control over their future and are not subject to the threat of sanctions.
While this decision does not guarantee the revival of the ESL, it signifies a significant challenge to the traditional governance of football by Uefa and Fifa.
The ramifications of this ruling are expected to resonate in the football landscape for an extended period.
