Strengthened partnership: MoU marks 15 years of success

In a landmark move for European football, UEFA and the European Club Association (ECA) have recently announced a renewal of strategic collaboration to foster growth, unity, and sustainability within the sport. Thanks to this month's extension of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) until 2030, the 15-year-long cooperation between the two organisations has never been stronger.

The MoU pools resources and expertise to shape the game's future and strengthen the core principles of the European football pyramid championed by fans across Europe. These include the open system of promotion and relegation that is the basis of qualification for European competitions.

Enhancing relations between UEFA and clubs

UEFA's rich heritage, coupled with unwavering commitment to integrity and fairness, has played a pivotal role in shaping modern European football. The governing body’s extensive experience in organising and overseeing major tournaments, such as the UEFA Champions League and the UEFA EURO, has set a standard of excellence that resonates around the world.

UEFA's enduring success is rooted in an exceptional ability to foster strong, respectful relationships with its member associations and various stakeholders within the football community. This has forged a network of trust and collaboration based on open communication, active listening, and an understanding of diverse needs and aspirations. The spirit of cooperation underpins UEFA's reputation as a unifying force within the global football family.

Football clubs are among the key stakeholders in the sport due to their role as the primary platforms for player development, competitions, and fan engagement. They drive the passion, talent, and financial investments that collectively shape the global football landscape. Since 2008, UEFA and the ECA have worked together to create a more cohesive and inclusive football ecosystem by aligning their interests and priorities. For this reason, UEFA has welcomed the progressive governance reforms that the ECA has made over the past year. By giving a voice to every club, regardless of their size, history or ambitions, big and small, these changes make the ECA more open and inclusive than ever before and a vital partner in UEFA's mission to develop and grow the game in each corner of the continent.

Financial sustainability and solidarity

Financial sustainability has been a perennial concern for clubs, especially due to the global economic challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. UEFA and the ECA will work hand-in-hand to implement measures that promote responsible financial management and stability within the club ecosystem through this collaboration.

With this in mind, the agreement also heralds the introduction of a new revenue distribution model for the 2024-27 club competition cycle that will provide record levels of solidarity payments to clubs in domestic league competitions, including the clubs not participating in the league phase of UEFA competitions.

The MoU also covers the evolution of UEFA Club Competitions SA – the joint venture between UEFA and the ECA – to further drive the commercial development of UEFA's club competitions.

Unity in diversity

UEFA and the ECA are committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within European football. By working collaboratively, they aim to create an environment where all individuals, regardless of their background or circumstances, have equal access and opportunities within the sport. This inclusive approach will not only enrich the footballing community but also inspire positive social change on a broader scale.