A Spanish court has ruled in favor of the breakaway clubs in a dispute over plans for a Super League. However, a crucial case before the European Court of Justice is still ongoing.
The district court of Madrid prohibited the world governing body FIFA and the European Football Union UEFA from punishing those clubs or people who worked on the foundation of the Super League. In addition, all measures that directly or indirectly hinder the development of the project are also prohibited.
The Spanish top clubs FC Barcelona and Real Madrid, along with the Italian record champions Juventus Turin, are the strongest supporters of the project. The court thus upheld an appeal by the agency “A22 Sports Management” against an earlier decision of the commercial court.
A22 announces continuation of plans
A22, based in Madrid and headed by ex-RTL boss Bernd Reichart, is intended to push ahead with the implementation of the Super League plans. “We will therefore continue our dialogue with football stakeholders in a new and more appropriate environment – free from threats and other obstructive actions by UEFA or any other body.”said Reichart according to a message.
All penalties and proceedings against the initially twelve and now three defecting clubs had already been declared null and void by UEFA in proceedings before the 17th Commercial Court in Madrid. A decision before the European Court of Justice will be more decisive anyway.
ECJ Advocate General opposes Super League plans
There was a setback for the Super League in mid-December. The Advocate General at the ECJ had described the rules of UEFA and FIFA as compatible with EU law. This assessment is not binding on the court, but usually the court largely follows the Advocate General’s assessment. A verdict is expected in early 2023.
In November 2022, UEFA gave agency A22 an appointment for a dialogue and surprised the guests with a prominent presence from the key interest groups in European football. These presented A22 with a concentrated rejection. A22 will continue to try to find comrades-in-arms.
Super League: Formed and burst in 2021, but not entirely off the table
Almost two years ago, twelve top clubs, including six Premier League-Clubs that caused a stir by releasing their Super League plans. The project would have been in direct competition with UEFA’s Champions League.
But after massive protests from other clubs, associations and fans, nine of the twelve clubs withdrew within hours. UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin declared the project “dead” at the time. But Real, Barça and Juve are sticking to their plans.