Will Super League happen after all? Groundbreaking European judgment paves the way for separate competition with top clubs: “UEFA’s monopoly is over”

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FIFA and UEFA acted unlawfully by blocking the creation of the European Super League. The European Court of Justice decided this. The court ruled that both FIFA and UEFA abused their dominant positions in the sport. Real Madrid and Manchester City playing in a new ‘Super League’? Saudi Arabia setting up a new football league in Europe? It is all possible thanks to a ruling by the European Court of Justice.

In April 2021, the football world was stunned when plans for a European Super League were suddenly revealed. Twelve of the largest European clubs would participate. A wave of criticism came and UEFA also threatened sanctions, after which six clubs withdrew their tails. But three clubs, Real Madrid, FC Barcelona and Juventus, decided to press ahead and started a legal battle against UEFA. He accused it of creating a monopoly and of being both a regulator and organizer of European football. UEFA would favor its own top competition, the Champions League.

In addition, A22 Sports Management, the European commercial sports development company behind the project, decided to take FIFA and UEFA to court. She challenged the right of FIFA and UEFA to block the formation of the ESL and impose sanctions on competing clubs.

The judge has now complied with this, 2.5 years after the date. The European Court labels the organization of cross-border club competitions and the exploitation of media rights as an economic activity. “They are therefore subject to the rules on free competition and free movement of persons and goods.” The consequences of today’s judgment could extend beyond the Super League alone. If UEFA loses its monopoly on organization and is only allowed to be a regulator, anyone can set up a professional club competition in Europe. For example, Saudi Arabia could transplant its football league to Europe.

The lawsuit is seen as one of the most important lawsuits in decades and could have just as far-reaching consequences for football as the Bosman ruling. It could turn the entire system in international football upside down.

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Super League organizer delighted with statement: “UEFA’s monopoly is over”

Bernd Reichart, CEO of A22 Sports (organizer of the Super League) was enormously relieved after the ruling of the European Court of Justice. “UEFA’s monopoly position has come to an end,” it said.

“Football is free. Clubs no longer have to fear sanctions and can now determine their own future. We want to make Super League matches available for free. And clubs, your income is guaranteed.”

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