Joan Laporta has dropped a bombshell, announcing that the Superleague and UEFA are in talks to reform the Champions League
The landscape of European football is on the cusp of significant change as discussions about competition formats and governance take center stage.
Barcelona, alongside other major clubs, has been vocal about the need for structural improvements to enhance profitability and fan engagement.
With the Superleague project facing challenges in gaining traction, recent developments suggest a shift toward collaboration rather than confrontation, potentially reshaping the future of elite club competitions.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta has revealed that the Superleague, comprising Barcelona, Real Madrid, and organizing firm A22, is engaged in negotiations with UEFA to reform the Champions League, as reported by Mundo Deportivo.
These talks, involving UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin and A22 CEO Bernd Reichart, aim to integrate elements like the Superleague’s proposed free streaming platform, which could generate substantial revenue.
Laporta emphasized a desire for a unified competition, moving away from the Superleague’s initial breakaway stance, with an agreement in principle based on governance, format, and revenue distribution.
The negotiations mark a departure from the Superleague’s earlier plans to launch a rival competition next month, which struggled to secure commitments from the 60 clubs reportedly consulted.
Laporta highlighted the importance of meritocracy and open competition, aligning with UEFA’s evolving stance.
The European Clubs Association (ECA), led by Paris Saint-Germain’s Nasser Al-Khelaifi, is expected to play a key role in managing governance, ensuring clubs have a stronger voice.
The new Champions League format already promises 20% more revenue, and further enhancements, including the streaming platform, could significantly boost finances.
Real Madrid, despite past criticisms of UEFA, is aligned with Barcelona in these discussions, with Laporta noting a unified approach to satisfy all parties.
The talks reflect a broader effort to avoid confrontation and improve European football collaboratively.
As negotiations progress, the outcome could redefine the Champions League, balancing club interests with UEFA’s oversight, and potentially shelving the Superleague project in favor of a reformed, inclusive competition that benefits clubs, fans, and the sport’s global reach.
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