UEFA and Real Madrid have reached an agreement to end their protracted legal battle over the failed European Super League project, drawing a line under one of the most divisive episodes in modern European football.
In a joint statement issued alongside European Football Clubs (EFC), the parties confirmed an “agreement of principles” following months of negotiations aimed at safeguarding the future of European club competitions.
Sporting Merit To Be Protected
“Sporting merit will be respected,” the statement read. “This agreement of principles will also serve to resolve their legal disputes related to the European Super League, once such principles are executed and implemented”.
The breakthrough effectively closes a bitter feud that began in 2021 when 12 elite clubs unveiled plans for a breakaway competition, triggering widespread fan protests and political backlash.
Real Madrid’s Legal Claims And Compensation
Real Madrid had sought compensation from UEFA in October, claiming more than $4 billion in lost broadcasting and sponsorship revenue following the collapse of the Super League project.
The claim followed rulings from Spanish courts, which determined that UEFA, along with the Spanish football federation (RFEF) and LaLiga, had abused a “dominant position” and violated EU competition laws by threatening sanctions against clubs involved in the breakaway initiative.
The Regional Court of Madrid dismissed appeals from UEFA and Spanish football authorities, reinforcing earlier findings that their actions breached competition regulations.
Super League Fallout And Failed Relaunch
While 10 of the original 12 founding clubs withdrew from the Super League within days of its announcement, Real Madrid and Barcelona remained its most vocal backers. However, Barcelona officially withdrew last week, leaving Real Madrid as the last major supporter of the concept.
Attempts to relaunch the project under a revised format titled the “Unify League” in December 2024, proposing a 96-club, four-division structure, failed to gain support. Strong resistance from domestic leagues, including LaLiga and the Premier League, ensured the revamped proposal did not move forward.
Renewed Commitment To Existing Structures
The new agreement signals a renewed commitment between UEFA and Europe’s top clubs to operate within existing competition structures while maintaining compliance with European competition law.
