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UEFA announced on Wednesday that disciplinary proceedings against Barcelona, Real Madrid and Juventus have been temporarily suspended.
The trio were all facing sanctions for their involvement in the seemingly doomed European Super League. All three clubs were part of the 12 ‘founder members’ and stayed in after the other nine pulled out amid fierce criticism.
There had been rumors the three clubs could be banned from the Champions League for their involvement, but a new statement has confirmed the disciplinary process is now on hold for the time being.
“UEFA takes note of the decision taken today by the independent UEFA Appeals Body to temporarily suspend the disciplinary proceedings that had been opened against FC Barcelona, Juventus FC and Real Madrid CF for a potential violation of UEFA’s legal framework in connection with the so-called ‘Super League’ project.
“UEFA notes that the decision to temporarily stay the proceedings has been taken by the UEFA Appeals Body following the formal notification made to UEFA by the Swiss competent authorities on 2 June 2021 of an ex-parte court order obtained on 20 April 2021 by the legal entity European Super League Company SL from the Madrid Commercial Court No. 17 (the “Court Order”). The decision of the independent UEFA Appeals Body has been taken without prejudice to the question about the enforceability of the Court Order in Switzerland. In reliance on the Court Order, the mentioned three clubs have sought to shield themselves from potential disciplinary consequences related to this so-called ‘Super League’ project.
“UEFA understands why the disciplinary proceedings needed to be suspended for the time being, but remains confident in and will continue to defend its position in all the relevant jurisdictions.”
Source | UEFA
It was also confirmed on Wednesday that the six English clubs involved have “acknowledged once again that their actions were a mistake” and have been fined £22m for the failed plan.
A joint statement from the Premier League and the FA stated the £22m is a “a gesture of goodwill” that will “go towards the good of the game, including new investment in support for fans, grassroots football and community programmes.”
The clubs have also agreed that any “similar actions” will result in a 30-point deduction and an additional £25m fine.