DFL statement on the Super League ruling

21 December 2023 – The European Court of Justice (ECJ) has confirmed that criteria for the approval of other competitions outside the association pyramid of the European sports model must be transparent, objective, non-discriminatory, and proportionate. This is understandable and was expected. UEFA and FIFA are required to review the criteria they have already developed, adapt them if necessary, and apply them lawfully. In its press release, the ECJ also clarified that its decision does not mean that a competition such as the Super League would necessarily have to be approved. The legality of the Super League is a separate issue.

The DFL expressly supports the European sports model and rejects competitions other than those organised by the associations and leagues. As soon as we have had the opportunity to assess the full ruling, we will comment in more detail.

DFL CEO Dr Marc Lenz says: “National leagues are the backbone of professional football in Europe – in societal, sporting and economic terms. The European Sport Model’s pyramid structure, basic principles and supporting regulations, i.e. cost regulations, are a crucial foundation for the positive development of European football.”