Barcelona, Real Madrid and Juventus have welcomed a decision from the European Court of Justice in Luxembourg that will allow them to keep developing their plans for a European Super League.
The trio spearheaded a breakaway competition from UEFA in January, though the brakes were quickly put on the plans due to supporter unrest, which initiated in England but spread throughout the majority of participants.
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While nine ‘Founder Clubs’ pulled out – including England’s Big 6, Atletico Madrid, Milan and Inter – Barcelona, Real Madrid and Juventus continued to hold onto the idea and were threatened with sanctions from UEFA.
European football’s governing body, however, will not be able to take action against these sides, who celebrated victory on 30 July.
Barcelona, Real Madrid and Juventus release Super League statement
In a joint statement, the clubs said: “Barcelona, Juventus, and Real Madrid CF welcome today's Court's decision enforcing, with immediate effect, UEFA's obligation to unwind the actions taken against all European Super League founding clubs, including terminating the disciplinary proceedings against the undersigning three clubs and removing the penalties and restrictions imposed on the remaining nine founding clubs for them to avoid UEFA's disciplinary action.
“The Court backs the request made by the promoters of the European Super League, dismisses UEFA's appeal, and confirms its warning to UEFA that failure to comply with its ruling shall result in fines and potential criminal liability. The case will be assessed by the European Court of Justice in Luxembourg, which shall review UEFA's monopolistic position over European football.
“We have the duty to address the very serious issues facing football: UEFA has established itself as the sole regulator, exclusive operator, and unique owner of rights of European football competitions. This monopolistic position, in conflict of interest, is damaging football and its competitive balance. As shown by ample evidence, financial controls are inadequate, and they have been improperly enforced. Clubs participating in European competitions have the right to govern their own competitions.
“We are pleased that going forward we will no longer be subject to ongoing UEFA's threats. Our aim is to keep developing the Super League project in a constructive and cooperative manner, always counting on all football stakeholders: fans, players, coaches, clubs, leagues, and national and international associations. We are aware that there are elements of our proposal that should be reviewed and, of course, can be improved through dialogue and consensus. We remain confident in the success of a project that will be always compliant with European Union laws.”