Real Madrid is poised to take legal action against UEFA following a significant ruling regarding the controversial Super League project. The Madrid Provincial Court has recently dismissed appeals from UEFA aimed at overturning a prior decision that found the governing body in violation of EU competition law for blocking the Super League initiative. This ruling opens the door for Real Madrid to seek compensation for damages they claim to have suffered as a result of UEFA’s actions.
The court’s decision follows a long-standing dispute that erupted in April 2021 when twelve major European clubs, including Real Madrid, announced their intention to form a breakaway league. The proposal faced immediate backlash from fans and football authorities alike, leading to its swift collapse just 48 hours after its announcement. In December 2023, the Court of Justice of the European Union ruled that the regulations employed by UEFA and FIFA to prevent the Super League were contrary to EU law and constituted an abuse of market dominance.
UEFA Responds to Court Ruling
In response to the court’s latest ruling, UEFA issued a statement asserting that this decision does not legitimize the Super League project or undermine its current regulations, which were updated in 2024. “This ruling does not validate the abandoned ‘super league’ project announced in 2021,” UEFA emphasized, indicating their commitment to maintaining control over European football competitions. They also mentioned that they would thoroughly review the judgment before deciding on further actions.
LaLiga‘s Stance
LaLiga has acknowledged the court’s ruling but downplayed its implications, clarifying that it does not endorse any specific competition format nor does it refer to the original Super League project. “The decision focuses exclusively on procedural aspects,” LaLiga stated, emphasizing that authorization systems must be transparent and objective without commenting on potential alternative tournaments.
As Real Madrid prepares to pursue compensation, they have not disclosed specific figures regarding potential damages. The club remains committed to advocating for what they believe is best for global football and its fans. Interestingly, support from other European clubs for a renewed Super League proposal appears uncertain. While Real Madrid stands as one of the last proponents of the initiative alongside A22 Sports Management, Juventus has distanced itself from the project, and Barcelona has recently strengthened ties with UEFA.
The landscape of European football governance is shifting, with the newly rebranded European Football Clubs group now boasting around 800 member teams, significantly influencing decisions related to competitions like the UEFA Champions League. Notably absent from this influential group is Real Madrid, which raises questions about their future strategies in reshaping European football.
Will Real Madrid succeed in their legal pursuit against UEFA? As they navigate these turbulent waters, the club’s next steps could redefine their role in European football and potentially alter its competitive landscape.
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