Sports
LaLiga: UEFA Club Competitions Model Threatens to Destabilise European Football
- A wider debate about UEFA plans is required to protect and nurture the foundation of European football: national leagues
- LaLiga and other European leagues call for more democratic and inclusive approach, including more solidarity payments to clubs unable to participate in European competitions
UEFA’s proposal for the future of its Club Competitions threatens the future of European football, according to LaLiga and other European leagues.
A broader dialogue is needed between all parties to avoid creating an unfairly tiered system that harms the foundation of European football: smaller clubs and leagues.
Early this month UEFA approved the new so-called UEL2, a new European competition beginning in 2021 that would consist of 32 clubs primarily from lower-ranked leagues. This new competition would take the total number of clubs playing continental tournaments from 80 to 96.
This proposal has a major impact on the future of football in Europe. As such, it should be discussed more broadly. Critical issues concerning the long-term health of clubs, scheduling, broadcasting rights, competitive balance within domestic leagues, or the relationship between domestic leagues and European competitions have so far been ignored.
“While the European Leagues have accepted the introduction of a third club competition, UEFA cannot make these decisions in isolation from the leagues that they affect,” said Javier Tebas, president of LaLiga. “Europa League 2 will place greater demands on smaller clubs, who are the basis of healthy competition and the growth of European football, and risks creating a further divide within leagues of those who have lucrative European football and those who don´t.”
LaLiga calls for further consultation with leagues, UEFA and other stakeholders to ensure that all concerns are heard before the UEL2 and the overall model for UEFA Club Competitions (UCC) can go ahead.
European Leagues, the Association of European Professional Football Leagues, has presented a complete proposal for UCC including detailed inputs to improve access list and revenue distribution of the Champions League (UCL), Europa League UEL and the new Europa League 2 (UEL2). Within this context, the leagues outlined the need for a new and more inclusive access list and a new revenue distribution model where solidarity is properly recognised to restore and support competitive balance in domestic competitions.
European Leagues proposes an increase in solidarity payments from 7% to 20%, for clubs not participating in European competitions, smaller leagues and federations. This would considerably increase the long-term sustainability of the model and reduce the impact on clubs who are not participating.
Despite the refusal from UEFA to change the access list for UCL, the European Leagues proposal also includes a more open and inclusive access list and clear guidelines on scheduling, with priority given to domestic competitions. As the first phase of any European competition, domestic leagues must come first and the existence of new competitions, without proper planning, could affect their very existence.
More importantly, considering the upcoming decision on the revenue model, the European Leagues proposal includes a significant readjustment of revenues distributed between competitions, preventing the over-allocation of funds towards Champions League participants and eliminating the historical coefficient model that unfairly prioritizes past achievements over current sporting results.
“It’s imperative to review the way revenue is distributed in the whole UCC model, including of course the financial distribution of Champions League,” Tebas stated. “Through further dialogue, a more inclusive and democratic model of European competition can be created, that respects the economic stability and the competitive equilibrium of the national leagues. This is one of the greatest challenges faced today across our continent and if it is not tackled decisively, it could have disastrous consequences in the long term.”
Quotes from additional European leagues
“At the Eredivisie we take the issue of competitive balance very seriously. We have recently approved a new regulation in the Netherlands for sharing among all clubs a percentage of the revenue coming from UEFA Club Competitions. It would be logical for UEFA to follow this good example by implementing a fairer revenue distribution model that could compensate the growing financial gap between a few top clubs and all the others, both in international as well as in domestic competitions,” Jacco Swart, CEO, Eredivisie (Netherlands).
“In Denmark we have been having an open dialogue with our Federation, since it is our common interest to have a competitive and compelling league at national level and at the same time to have Danish clubs performing well in the international competitions. We have both asked UEFA to reconsider the way financial resources are redistributed so as to achieve these goals. We believe it is fundamental to review the whole distribution system, from Champions League to Europa League and the new competition, in order to generate a positive impact for all professional clubs,” Claus Thomsen, CEO, Divisionsforeningen (Denmark).
“The Swiss League and its clubs are very much concerned about the new access list approved by UEFA for the UEL2. Considering our current ranking, the number of Swiss Clubs with opportunities to access European competition would remain the same but with the new format we will have less clubs playing in UEL and more clubs playing for UEL2 which is a competition of lower level and prestige. The access to UEL is getting stricter, following the path of the Champions League to become a more elite competition.
The decision on the revenue distribution is still to be taken and we are requesting that UEFA increase the level of compensation in a substantial way in order to manage the huge financial gap between Swiss clubs regularly participating to UEFA Competitions and the remaining clubs playing solely at domestic level. It’s becoming imperative to better protect the competitive balance of national leagues to guarantee the long-term sustainability of European football,” Claudius Schäfer, CEO, Swiss Football League
“To be honest we were expecting UEFA to introduce an a even more inclusive access list for UEL2, but overall we welcome a format which will give to more clubs from more countries the possibility to play in Europe.
“It is now time to review the financial model. Champions League clubs are receiving too much money from UEFA. We need more money to be shared among all clubs, and especially, among those clubs not participating to international competition.
“At the Ekstraklasa we work to provide most of our clubs the chance to compete and win the Polish championship while dreaming to play in Europe. UEFA has a huge responsibility to keep this dream alive for all our clubs,” Marcin Animucki, President, Ekstraklasa (Poland)
Sports
Mbah Receives EPL Trophy, Seeks Guinness’ Partnership to Grow Sports in Enugu
…Why we choose Enugu- Guinness, reports SANDRA ANI
The Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has expressed his eagerness to partner with Guinness Nigeria PLC to accelerate his administration’s sports development effort, describing the state as the home of sporting legends, who have ruled the world of sports as well as home of abundant talents for the future.
Mbah spoke when a team of Guinness Nigeria’s management showcased the English Premier League, EPL, trophy, to him at Government House, Enugu, on Friday.
It is recalled that Guinness Nigeria and the Premier League partnered to bring the iconic silverware for display in Enugu on Friday, May 16 and in Lagos on Saturday May 17 and Sunday, 18 to give EPL’s teeming fans in Nigeria the rare opportunity to experience the trophy.
Speaking during the presentation of the trophy at the Lion Building, Enugu State Government House, Mbah noted that beside putting in place legislative frameworks for sports development, his administration was also embarking on a massive reconstruction of the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium and Awgu Games Village preparatory to hosting the 2026 edition of the National Sports Festival.
“Like Guinness, we regard sports as a positive force in Enugu. We are not surprised that the Guinness flagship event is being held here in Enugu. Just like Guinness, we also see sports as a platform to foster social cohesion. We are not just paying lip service to sports; we actually have our skin in the game.
“We believe that the EPL is quite a spectacle with audiences across the world and you couldn’t have chosen a better city for the flagship event than Enugu.
“Again, since here is the home of Rangers and since we have also recognised that this is where it all happens, let us begin to think about more collaboration with Guinness to see how we can secure endorsement with the Guinness corporate brand. This should be on the table because Rangers also won the 2023/2024 Nigerian Premier League title.
“We are just about giving the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium and Awgu Games Village a new lease of life, making sure they meet FIFA and World Athletics standards ahead of the National Sports Festival. So, we look forward to more strategic collaboration with Guinness. We are quite a business-friendly state,” he stated.
Earlier, the leader of the delegation and the Corporate Relations Director at Guinness Nigeria PLC, Rotimi Odusola, described Enugu State as the spiritual home of sports in Nigeria, noting the exploits of Rangers.
He said it was only natural to choose Enugu for the display of the EPL silverware, given its history and the great job Governor Mbah had done in repositioning the state.
“Some may wonder why Enugu. There is a reason for us to choose Enugu as the first place in Nigeria since this trophy arrived yesterday. It is because we know that Enugu State is the spiritual home of football in Nigeria. As a young football lover, I can’t forget all of the stories around Enugu Rangers football team.
“I want to also appreciate you for the work you are doing. The last time I was in Enugu was in 2022 and I have seen remarkable improvements in Enugu State since my last visit.
“This presentation of the EPL trophy is an opportunity for us to reinforce Guinness Nigeria being a business that has been intricate in the fabric of Nigeria for 75 years. We also want to use this opportunity to create magical moments for our consumers and members of the public through the collaboration between Guinness globally and the English Premier League,” he added.
The event was witnessed by the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Enugu State, Barr. Lloyd Ekweremadu; Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dame Ugochi Madueke; Director, Marketing and Innovations, Guinness Nigeria, Yinka Bakare; Director, Corporate Relations, Guinness Nigeria, Rotimi Odusola; Head of Marketing, Guinness Nigeria, Ramanathan Sollayepan; Head of Division, South-East Region, Guinness Nigeria, Adesoji Opeyemi; General Manager, Rangers International Football Club of Enugu, Barr. Amobi Ezeaku; and the Chairman, Enugu State Football Association, Barr. Tony Ugwu, among others.
MTN Nigeria, the official sponsor of the English Premier League (EPL) on SuperSport, successfully hosted an electrifying Manchester Derby watch party at Bay Lounge, Lekki, on April 6, 2025. Football fans gathered for a superb night of live-action football, engaging discussions, and exciting giveaways.
Building on the success of its previous Arsenal vs. Manchester United watch party, MTN Nigeria once again provided a premium viewing experience that brought fans together to celebrate their shared passion for football.
These fans enjoyed their match on a big screen among other football lovers. The Derby ended in a tense goalless draw that, while lacking in goals, was full of drama.
Fans erupted at every near-miss, debated tactical battles, and rode the emotional rollercoaster of a match that left City’s Champions League hopes hanging and reflected Manchester United’s season frustrations.
Looking ahead, this draw presents an opportunity for Newcastle United, as they could overtake City for fifth place if they secure a victory against Leicester City, who are battling relegation, on Monday; highlighting the competitive nature of the league and the dynamic possibilities for all teams involved.
Nwadinma Gregory, one lucky attendee who walked away with an MTN broadband MiFi, said “The energy at the MTN Nigeria watch party was absolutely incredible! Watching the Manchester Derby with fellow fans, experiencing every goal, every near miss and every thrilling moment together made it unforgettable. MTN really knows how to bring football lovers together for an amazing experience!”
One of the biggest talking points was Kevin De Bruyne, who recently announced this would be his final season at Manchester City.
Fans took the opportunity to reflect on his remarkable legacy. Mickhael Ehi, an attendee, shared his thoughts on De Bruyne’s impact and contribution to the team, highlighting the significance of his career at the club: “Seeing De Bruyne in what might be his last Manchester Derby was bittersweet. He’s been a Premier League legend: the assists, the vision, the leadership. Even if he wasn’t at his peak today, you could feel the respect from the crowd. Players like him don’t come around often.”
Lakinbofa Goodluck, MTN Nigeria’s PR Manager, highlighted the brand’s dedication to enhancing football experiences:
“At MTN Nigeria, we are committed to enriching the experiences of our customers and football lovers. The Premier League is more than just football; it’s about community, passion, and unforgettable moments, and we are proud to bring that to our fans.”
With the EPL season still in full swing, MTN Nigeria will continue to create unique engagement opportunities for fans, ensuring they stay connected to the game they love.
…reaffirms MTN Nigeria’s support following ‘draw’ with Zimbabwe.
MTN Nigeria, the official telecommunications partner of the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF), has reiterated its unwavering support for the Super Eagles following their spirited draw with Zimbabwe in the World Cup qualifier match at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom.
Building on the momentum from their recent victory against Rwanda, MTN Nigeria had expressed strong backing for the national team ahead of the crucial fixture. Tobe Okigbo, MTN Nigeria’s Chief Corporate Services & Sustainability Officer, stated before the game, “We are confident in the team’s ability to make Nigeria proud and qualify for the World Cup.”
Despite the draw, MTN Nigeria’s CEO, Karl Toriola, maintained a positive outlook. “While tonight’s outcome wasn’t what we hoped for, we remain steadfast in our support for the Super Eagles. This result is just part of the journey towards World Cup qualification, and we believe in the team’s resilience and ability to succeed,” Toriola said.
The match showcased the Super Eagles’ grit and determination as they found their rhythm against the Zimbabwean side. Nigeria scored the first goal, demonstrating their prowess and fighting spirit, although the match ultimately ended in a draw. This result has added to the excitement of Nigeria’s path to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
MTN Nigeria, which signed a deal with the NFF in 2021 as the Official Telecoms Partner, has been a constant pillar of support for Nigerian football for over two decades. The company’s commitment extends from grassroots to national levels, investing significantly in the development of local football.
“Our support for the Super Eagles and all national teams is part of our long-standing tradition,” Toriola added. “We are building a sustainable legacy of collaboration, growth, and development in the football space. Tonight’s result doesn’t change our belief in the team’s potential to make all Nigerians proud on the global stage. We believe in our Eagles.”
As the Super Eagles regroup and prepare for their next qualifier, MTN Nigeria has called on all Nigerians to rally behind the team. The company emphasized that this is a crucial time for unity and continued support, expressing confidence that the Super Eagles will overcome this challenge and strive towards securing a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
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