Under UEFA regulations, Girona and Manchester City face exclusion from the Champions League next season, even if they qualify, owing to their shared ownership—a scenario UEFA deems conflicting. The prohibition stems from UEFA’s commitment to maintaining fairness in competitions and thwarting potential bias arising from common ownership of multiple clubs.
UEFA has implemented stringent rules to ensure equity and curb conflicts of interest associated with shared ownership, aligning with their overarching goal of upholding competition integrity. The prohibition reflects a broader strategy aimed at preventing any compromise to fair play.
While clubs under shared ownership may thrive domestically, UEFA’s measures are a safeguard against unfair advantages arising from shared financial support or decision-making. The regulatory framework seeks to level the playing field and mitigate the risk of one entity wielding disproportionate influence over multiple participating teams.
In essence, UEFA’s stance emphasizes the importance of impartiality and transparency in football competitions, reinforcing the principle that success should be determined on the pitch rather than influenced by off-field connections. The regulations underscore UEFA’s commitment to fostering an environment where all participating clubs can compete on equal terms, safeguarding the essence of fair and competitive football at the highest level.
