Promoters Seek Recognition for Newly Named “Unify League” from FIFA and UEFA
Promoters of European football’s Super League announced on Tuesday they have sought “official recognition” from FIFA and UEFA for their newly named competition, the “Unify League,” citing a ruling from Europe’s highest court.
A22 Sports Management submitted this proposal following talks with various leagues, clubs, and other stakeholders, adjusting its qualification system to reflect annual domestic performances for participation.
The plan includes competitions with 96 teams organised into four leagues, which would take place from September to April, followed by a knockout stage beginning with the quarter-finals.
The promoters added that matches would be available for live viewing at no cost through a streaming platform.
Backlash and Retreat from Super League Clubs
In early 2021, European football faced a disruption when 12 of its most prominent clubs declared their involvement in the Super League, prompting an intense backlash from fans and a stern warning from UEFA that clubs and players participating would be banned from tournaments like the World Cup.
Within 48 hours, nine of the 12 dissenting clubs, including six from the English Premier League, retreated, leading to the project’s downfall.
Legal Challenges and Court Rulings
Last year, the European Court of Justice determined that UEFA had violated EU law by using its “dominant position” in European football to suppress the emergence of a breakaway league comprised of elite clubs.
In May, a court in Spain ruled that FIFA and UEFA had “prevented free competition” by opposing the Super League.
UEFA maintained that the ruling did not expressly endorse the formation of the Super League and noted that it has since implemented new regulations to ensure compliance with EU law.
