The Premier League has applauded the European Union Court of Justice (CJEU) for its ruling that attempts to penalise European Super League clubs would be legal.
UEFA and FIFA would be acting legally by prohibiting clubs from competing in third-party competitions, according to CJEU advocate general Athanasios Rantos, who delivered a blow to the Super League’s supporters on Thursday, including Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Juventus.
Rantos was responding to a Madrid court’s request for a decision on whether the governing bodies could act in accordance with competition law and fundamental freedoms. A decision is anticipated in the new year.
Sanctions, according to Super League backers, would be in conflict with EU competition law.
But UEFA described Rantos’ opinion as “an encouraging step towards preserving the existing dynamic and democratic governance structure of the European football pyramid.”
The message has also been well-received by FIFA and the European Club Association, of which Madrid, Barcelona, and Juventus are no longer members.
In a statement released on Thursday, the Premier League reaffirmed its support for open, merit-based entry into European competitions.
“We share the advocate general’s clear view that open access is fundamental to European club football,” the statement read.
“Further to today’s opinion, the Premier League reiterates its commitment to the principles underpinning the current balance of domestic and European competitions including open access, annual merit-based qualification from domestic leagues for European club competitions, weekends reserved for domestic football and substantial solidarity funding for football development.
“The fans’ voice regarding the essential nature of sporting integrity has been heard.
“Above all, the focus of Premier League clubs is on improving the collective strength and competitiveness of the league in the best interests of the wider game.
“The Premier League will continue to engage in an open dialogue, with all relevant stakeholders, about how best to protect the complementary balance between domestic and European club football.”
In the face of vehement opposition from fans, players, and the media, each of the six English clubs that participated in the Super League’s disastrous launch last year withdrew their support.
