UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin says football has emerged as the clear winner after Real Madrid agreed to end its long‑running dispute with European football’s governing body. The decision follows nearly five years of tension sparked by the failed European Super League project.
Real Madrid and Barcelona were the final clubs still tied to the breakaway concept. England’s top six teams withdrew within 48 hours of the 2021 announcement due to intense fan and political pressure. However, Real and Barcelona continued to defend the idea, with Real even launching legal action against UEFA.
Barcelona formally stepped away last week. Real Madrid’s agreement on Wednesday closes the final chapter of the controversial project.
Ceferin Praises Renewed Unity in European Football
Speaking at the UEFA Congress in Brussels, Ceferin expressed relief that the conflict had finally ended. He said he was “very happy” to see Real Madrid and Barcelona “back in the family” and stressed that disagreements never erased mutual respect.
Ceferin highlighted that UEFA and Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez clashed over the Super League, yet both sides maintained their commitment to the sport. He emphasised that football—not institutions or individuals—was the true winner.
EFC Influence Grows Through UC3 Partnership
Paris Saint‑Germain president Nasser Al‑Khelaifi played a key role in rebuilding trust. As chairman of the European Football Clubs (EFC) group, he helped Real Madrid re‑engage with UEFA’s structures.
The UC3 commercial partnership between UEFA and the EFC now gives clubs a stronger voice in shaping competitions and revenue distribution. This shift aims to prevent future breakaway attempts by ensuring clubs feel represented within UEFA’s governance model.
