CELTIC have taken a swipe at new European Super League plans – and insisted they back UEFA in the bitter dispute over the future of the game.
The European Court of Justice ruled today that Fifa and Uefa acted against competition law when they blocked the formation of a European Super League in 2021.
That’s been the catalyst for a re-floating of a proposal which had the backing of twelve of Europe’s biggest clubs two years ago.
the Super League announced a new open format consisting of 64 teams and three divisions – Star, Gold and Blue – with promotion and relegation included.
Hoops chairman Peter Lawwell is a key figure at the European Club Association– which works closely with Uefa – and says that the future of the sport will continue to be negotiated through the European Governing body.
Celtic said in a statement: “Celtic Football Club has noted today’s judgement delivered by the European Court of Justice.
“The resolution regarding the framework for prior authorization of other competitions refers to outdated UEFA statutes that were already amended in June 2022.
“We must be clear that this does not in any way endorse or approve the so-called ‘Super League’ project.
“Celtic plays an important, leading role within the European Club Association framework and as a club, we are fully committed to working through the ECA, alongside our fellow European clubs to uphold the values that define European football.
“We can only achieve our objectives through the strong partnership ECA enjoys with UEFA.
“The wider European football community is not supportive of the ESL, and Celtic, like many other clubs, will continue to promote the interests and protection of football’s broader family through the ECA and UEFA.”
A joint statement on behalf of the SFA, SPFL AND SWPL read: “The Scottish FA, SPFL and SWPL note today’s judgment in the European Court of Justice case involving the European Superleague Company, FIFA and UEFA. We will now take time to examine fully its implications for the game in Scotland.
“It is important to note that the judgement does not endorse the so-called ‘European Super League’, nor any other breakaway competition that severs the crucial link between domestic league football and European competitions. Football supporters across Scotland, the UK and Europe have time and again made clear their opposition to such a concept.
“The Scottish FA, SPFL and SWPL support the principle of open competition – earning it on the pitch – both in domestic and international club competitions. Football thrives on the competitiveness created by promotion and relegation, and the annual merit-based qualification from domestic leagues and cups to European club competitions, with weekends being reserved exclusively for domestic football. We continue to support both UEFA and its cup competitions.
“Alongside the member leagues of the European Leagues, the Scottish FA, SPFL and SWPL will continue to engage in open and constructive dialogue, with all relevant football stakeholders, on how best to protect and enhance the complementary balance of domestic and international club football.”
Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page