Real Madrid and Super League File €4.5bn Lawsuits Against UEFA

Real Madrid and Super League Push €4.5bn Legal Action Against UEFA

Real Madrid and Super League Challenge UEFA After Court Victory

Real Madrid and Super League organizers have escalated their conflict with UEFA, launching lawsuits worth a combined €4.5 billion. These legal actions come after the European Court of Justice (CJEU) ruled in 2023 that UEFA and FIFA acted unlawfully by blocking the creation of the Super League, a ruling that has emboldened the project’s backers to seek compensation and formal recognition for their competition.

Inside the €4.5 Billion Legal Battle

According to Spanish outlet AS, both Real Madrid and A22—the company driving the Super League initiative—are filing separate claims against UEFA. They allege that UEFA’s resistance to the Super League caused substantial financial losses and stifled fair competition in European football. The new lawsuits intensify pressure on UEFA, especially as organizers have now demanded that UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin formally approve the updated Super League format within two months, or face further legal consequences.

In a formal letter, A22 emphasized their willingness to negotiate: “Despite our substantial concessions, no agreement has been reached. We reiterate our request for UEFA’s formal acknowledgement of our amended proposal as soon as possible and, in any event, no later than eight weeks from the date of this letter.” Meanwhile, Real Madrid president Florentino Perez confirmed at the club’s Annual General Meeting that Madrid would proceed with their own legal action, taking the total claims to €4.5 billion.

The Evolution of the Super League Format

Originally announced in 2021 as a closed competition with 12 founding clubs, the Super League faced immediate backlash from fans, football authorities, and governments across Europe. In response to the widespread criticism, organizers introduced significant reforms to make the competition more inclusive and competitive. The latest proposal envisions a tournament featuring 36 clubs—divided into two groups of 18—with a “Super-Champions” format leading into knockout stages.

Key reforms include a new governance board composed of participating clubs, UEFA or the European Football Council, and player representatives. Notably, three player delegates would have authority on major decisions such as revenue distribution and competition structure. Additionally, A22 proposed a global digital streaming platform, ‘Unify’, offering free football content to fans worldwide. Despite these sweeping changes, UEFA rejected the revised proposals, prompting Madrid and A22’s legal escalation.

Why Only Madrid Remain Committed to the Super League

The Super League’s launch initially included powerhouse clubs such as Real Madrid, Barcelona, Juventus, Arsenal, Manchester United, Liverpool, and Chelsea. However, the project quickly unraveled amid fierce protests and threats of sanctions. All six English clubs withdrew within days, leaving only Madrid, Barcelona, and Juventus as steadfast supporters.

Over time, UEFA’s introduction of a more lucrative and competitive Champions League format—offering higher revenues and structural improvements—led to further defections. Juventus pulled out in June 2024 and Barcelona followed in October, making Real Madrid the sole top club still openly advocating for the Super League vision.

UEFA’s Response and the Road Ahead

With legal battles intensifying, UEFA faces mounting pressure from both the courts and football stakeholders. The organization has so far refused to approve the new Super League, but the CJEU’s ruling and persistent legal threats may force UEFA to reconsider its position in order to avoid further financial and reputational damage. Fans and analysts hope that all parties can reach a solution that benefits European football as a whole.

Real Madrid, meanwhile, are preparing for their upcoming Champions League clash against Olympiacos, eager to return to form after recent setbacks. The outcome of their legal campaign—and UEFA’s next move—could shape the future of European club competitions for years to come. For more news, visit for more news.

Opinion: Is the Super League the Future or a Risk?

The ongoing standoff between Real Madrid, Super League organizers, and UEFA highlights the deep divisions within European football’s elite. While innovation and reform are essential for the sport’s growth, any new competition must prioritize sporting merit, fair governance, and the voices of fans. As the legal saga unfolds, it’s crucial that stakeholders remember football’s roots and work toward a future that serves the best interests of the entire game.