The court ruling
The Commercial Court No. 17 of Madrid today issued its ruling on the case of the European Super League against LALIGA, establishing that it does not endorse said competition. This decision is in line with the ruling of the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) and focuses on the legal procedure, without judging the abandoned Super League project. In addition, the modifications made by UEFA in its competition authorization regulations are taken into account.
LALIGA’s position
In a statement, LALIGA reaffirms its defense that the debate on the European Super League must take place within European football. It stands out that this debate has been mostly against the Super League, with the participation of national leagues, clubs, players, fans and public institutions.
The normative conflict
The judge in the case explains that this is a regulatory conflict that affects the organizational model of football. She points out that it is up to those involved in football to modify and adapt this model, and that the procedure is not intended to authorize any competition, but rather to lay the foundations for a system of free competition in the organization of football competitions.
The authorization of the project is not resolved
It is important to highlight that the judge clarifies that the court has not requested nor will it rule on the authorization of the Super League project. The ruling focuses on the regulatory conflict and not on the authorization of the competition.
UEFA modifications
The court also mentions the modifications made by UEFA in its competition authorization regulations. These modifications have been codified and completed in 2022, following the line established by the CJEU.
Reactions and consequences
During these months, many voices have been raised against the European Super League, arguing that it perpetuates the participation of a privileged few and restricts access to European football. It has been warned about the possible dangers and negative consequences of this competition, both on a sporting and economic level. Launching the Super League with only the most powerful clubs could harm national competitions, cause job losses and reduce tax revenues across the continent.
Defense of the European Sports Model
The countries of the European Union, with the exception of the Government of Spain, have signed a document in defense of the European Model of Sport. This document highlights the importance of sporting meritocracy and solidarity in European football, and opposes competitions that undermine these principles and endanger the stability of the sporting ecosystem.
Economic impact
The launch of the Super League would have a significant economic impact. According to a report by the consulting firm KPMG, in Spain 55% of the global income of LALIGA and the clubs would be lost, which would put at risk an industry that generates thousands of jobs and contributes taxes to the country.
