Czech support for European sports model
Thursday, November 24, 2022
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Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala joined UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin and Football Association of the Czech Republic (FAČR) President Peter Fousek in supporting the European model of sport this week.
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Mr Čeferin visited FAČR headquarters in Strahov on Wednesday to thank the association for its strong support in opposing a so-called "Super League", as well as discussing this season's UEFA Conference League final, which will be staged at the city's Eden Arena.
The FAČR, alongside UEFA's other member national associations, is a firm backer of the European sports model, which is based on open competition, sporting merit and the crucial connection between the grassroots and elite games.
The European model guarantees that revenue from professional competitions is reinvested in football development, demonstrated by the fact that 97% of UEFA's revenues are reinvested directly back into the sport.
Aleksander Čeferin, UEFA President:
"It was a very pleasant meeting. We talked about Czech and international football, and we also agreed that the European sports model is the only way to go forward. I was very happy to find out that the Prime Minister is interested in Czech football and football in general. After all, football is more than just competition.
"I'm grateful to the Czech government for its clear stance in defending European football, but ultimately also Czech football. I'd like to thank the Czech Prime Minister for his clear position, as well as President Fousek and the entire Czech association."
Petr Fiala, Czech Prime Minister:
"The Czech Republic supported UEFA in the aforementioned dispute, and this is because the current model is functional not only from an economic point of view, but mainly from a sporting and social point of view. The proposed change would mean less support for amateur and youth football teams.
"Solidarity and the resulting support for youth, which the current model guarantees, is absolutely key for football and sport in general and is a fundamental prerequisite for nurturing talents and supporting the sports activities of children and youth."
The Czech Republic holds the Presidency of the EU from July to December this year, and, following their meeting at the Office of the Prime Minister, Mr Fiala also confirmed that Mr Čeferin will be invited to a conference of sports ministers in Brussels next week.