Spanish Competition Authorities Investigate UEFA's Agreement with Super League Clubs
Spanish competition authorities are investigating an agreement between UEFA and nine clubs involved in the proposed European Super League. The agreement, reached in May 2021, committed the clubs to UEFA's competitions and imposed fines of 100 million euros if they attempted to join an unauthorized competition in the future. The National Commission on Markets and Competition (CNMC) is scrutinizing this agreement for potential violations of European competition law, citing substantial evidence of a violation. The investigation could take up to two years to settle.
The CNMC's investigation was initiated after a grievance was lodged by A22, proponents of the Super League initiative. A22 welcomed the investigation, citing a 2023 ruling by the Court of Justice of the European Union that found UEFA and FIFA breached European competition law. Despite the CJEU ruling, UEFA had revised its rules to comply with EU legislation and collaborated with the European Commission to shape newer regulations. UEFA reaffirmed its commitment to engaging with the CNMC to resolve the situation swiftly, maintaining that the Club Commitment Declarations are compatible with Spanish and EU competition law.
The investigation by Spanish competition authorities into the agreement between UEFA and nine clubs involved in the proposed European Super League has raised concerns about potential violations of European competition law. The probe, initiated after a grievance was lodged by A22, aims to ensure compliance with EU legislation and address any issues related to the Club Commitment Declarations. UEFA remains committed to engaging with the CNMC to bring the matter to a close and uphold the integrity of European football competitions.