Plans for a European Super League were announced in April 2021 but were met with widespread criticism and quickly collapsed; the Grand Chamber of the European Court of Justice said on Thursday that FIFA and UEFA blocking the ESL is ‘contrary to EU law’
The Premier League has reconfirmed its objection to a European Super League as organisers launched a new proposal following a significant court verdict.
On Thursday, judges said UEFA rules blocking the formation of a new competition, such as the European Super League, were contrary to EU law – but added that the competition may still not be approved.
The Premier League said: “The ruling does not endorse the so-called ‘European Super League’ and the Premier League continues to reject any such concept.
“Supporters are of vital importance to the game and they have time and again made clear their opposition to a ‘breakaway’ competition that severs the link between domestic and European football.”
Manchester United released a statement on Thursday saying they “remain fully committed to participation in UEFA competitions”, while Manchester City and Tottenham said they are “committed to the values of European football”.
A Chelsea statement said: “The judgement issued today does not change Chelsea’s position”.
The Grand Chamber of the European Court of Justice had been asked to decide whether UEFA and FIFA acted against competition law by blocking the formation of the European Super League in 2021 and then seeking to sanction the clubs involved.
The original 2021 Super League proposal was criticised for its ‘closed’ format, with 15 founder clubs set to have been immune from relegation.
Following that announcement European Super League organisers revealed their new, revised plans.
The European Super League saga sparked intense debate and highlighted the complex relationship between football’s governing bodies, clubs, and fans. The proposed league faced swift opposition from UEFA, FIFA, domestic leagues, and fans, leading to its collapse not long after its unveiling. However, the recent court ruling regarding the legality of UEFA rules blocking the formation of new competitions, including the European Super League, has added a new dimension to this ongoing saga.
The response from the Premier League and several clubs further underscores the contentious nature of the European Super League concept. The assertion of the league’s commitment to rejecting the idea and the clubs’ declarations of their dedication to existing competitions emphasizes the deep-rooted divisions and tensions within European football.
Moreover, the European Court of Justice’s involvement in assessing the actions of UEFA and FIFA, and the subsequent revelations of new plans by the ESL organizers, demonstrate the multi-faceted legal, regulatory, and competitive aspects at play in this complex scenario.
The evolving nature of this issue reflects the dynamic and challenging landscape of modern football, where the pursuit of commercial interests must be carefully balanced with the traditions and values cherished by fans and the broader football community. The European Super League debate underscores the need for ongoing dialogue, transparency, and collaboration to navigate the future of the sport in a way that respects its heritage and ensures its sustainability.
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