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Manchester City Wins Legal Battle Against Premier League Over Sponsorship Rules, Including Etihad Deal

Oct 7, 2024, 01:38 PM

Manchester City has achieved a significant legal victory against the Premier League, with new rules on sponsorship deals being declared unlawful. The tribunal ruled that regulations aimed at preventing clubs from inflating deals with companies linked to their owners did not comply with competition and public law requirements. This decision impacts two large sponsorship deals, including a major Etihad sponsorship deal, that Manchester City was previously blocked from completing. The Premier League acknowledged that some of Manchester City's arguments were rejected but noted that the tribunal identified only a small number of discrete elements of the rules that need to be remedied. Both Manchester City and the Premier League are claiming aspects of victory, with the Premier League stating it will continue to operate the existing Associated Party Transaction system while considering the tribunal's findings. The ruling has major repercussions for Arsenal and other rivals.