The Court of Justice of the European Union today ruled that FIFA and UEFA rules prohibiting the organisation of alternative club competitions without prior approval are contrary to EU law.

While recognising that FIFA and UEFA are entitled to lay down rules on the organisation of club competitions by third parties, the Court of Justice considers that they cannot require prior authorisation or impose sanctions on clubs and players who take part in them without first establishing generic, clear and well-defined criteria and procedures.

In practical terms, this decision by the Court of Justice means that if FIFA and UEFA can continue to “control” the organisation of alternative club competitions, provided they are subject to previously defined criteria and rules, without being able to prevent them. Immediately, however, the SuperLeague cannot be banned, nor can those who take part in it be penalised.

The CVA will continue to follow the issue. More news soon on our website.

See the judgment here.