Real Madrid is seeking multi-million dollar compensation from UEFA after a Madrid court ruled that European football’s governing body “gravely infringed European Union free competition rules” by combating the proposed Super League.
The court rejected an appeal from UEFA, finding that the Nyon-based organization abused its dominant position to obstruct the breakaway competition.
The Spanish club confirmed its intent to pursue damages in a statement issued on its website. It stated ongoing attempts to meet with UEFA this year had been unsuccessful.
“We will continue to work for the good of world football and its fans. At the same time, we will ask UEFA for the value of the damages suffered,” the club’s statement read.
A22 Sports, the promoter behind the Super League, also announced it would seek significant compensation.
Bernd Reichart, CEO of A22 Sports, said, “By abusing its power and preventing new initiatives, UEFA caused substantial damages to several clubs, players, and the European football ecosystem.”
UEFA quickly responded by downplaying the court’s decision.
The organization highlighted a resolution from the European Parliament which explicitly reiterated its opposition to “separatist competitions.”
This resolution warned that such leagues could “jeopardize the sporting ecosystem.”