Legal Battle Over the Unify League: A22 Sports Management vs. UEFA

A22 Sports Management, the organization behind the controversial European Super League, has initiated legal action against UEFA, demanding pre-authorization for its proposed Unify League within eight weeks. This demand follows a series of legal victories against UEFA, including a landmark ruling by the Court of Justice for the European Union (CJEU) in December 2023, which determined that UEFA's practices towards potential competitors violated EU law. A22's chief executive, Bernd Reichart, asserts that UEFA's refusal to approve the Unify League constitutes a continuation of illegal practices.

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The Unify League concept has evolved significantly since its initial proposal in December 2023. Originally designed as a men’s competition with four leagues, A22 has since revised its plan to align more closely with UEFA’s existing competition formats. The current proposal includes three leagues—Star, Gold, and Blue—each featuring 36 teams, with clubs qualifying through their domestic leagues. This approach aims to address feedback from clubs and to comply with UEFA's regulations while maintaining a competitive structure.

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Real Madrid, a staunch supporter of the European Super League and the Unify League, has joined A22 in its legal pursuits against UEFA. President Florentino Perez has publicly stated that Real Madrid believes it is owed €4.5 billion in lost revenue due to UEFA's actions. Reichart, previously the CEO of RTL Deutschland, emphasizes that the strength of their legal case allows them to seek damages and the right to organize the Unify League.

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In a letter to UEFA, Reichart criticized the governing body for its continued non-compliance with EU law, stating, “Despite this clarity, UEFA continues to maintain statutes which are contrary to EU law.” He also highlighted that UEFA's recent rules, implemented in June 2024, further expose the organization to potential damage claims. UEFA has not publicly responded to A22’s demands or Perez's assertions.

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Critics of A22's Unify League proposal express concerns regarding its governance structure and potential impacts on existing competitions. A22 has proposed a new league board of directors, which would include representatives from participating clubs, UEFA, and the European Football Clubs (EFC). However, some stakeholders worry that this could undermine UEFA's authority and disrupt the current competitive landscape. Additionally, while A22 aims to launch a streaming platform to provide free access to matches, the financial viability of such an initiative remains in question, especially in light of recent successes by UEFA's joint venture with EFC in selling broadcast rights.

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• “To date, three different EU courts, including the EU’s highest court, have issued consistent rulings that leave no room for doubt: UEFA’s abuse of its dominant monopoly position cannot stand, and its exclusionary practices must cease,” — Bernd Reichart, CEO of A22 Sports Management

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• “Today, after our legal victories, the situation is radically different.” — Florentino Perez, President of Real Madrid

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• “I can only think of one reason why UEFA wouldn’t do it, because delaying it for a year means another year of million-dollar salaries for them.” — Florentino Perez

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As A22 and Real Madrid pursue their claims against UEFA, the outcome of this legal battle could significantly reshape the landscape of European football. The next steps will likely involve further legal proceedings in Madrid, where A22 seeks to solidify its position and potentially launch the Unify League in accordance with EU law.

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