Manchester City and the Premier League are at odds over a recent legal ruling on Associated Party Transaction (APT) rules. City claims the ruling exposes unfair financial restrictions, while the league believes the rules ensure integrity and only need minor tweaks. This case could impact future sponsorship deals.
Manchester City faced 115 charges earlier this year, and nine clubs, including Manchester United, Liverpool,
Tottenham, West Ham, Brentford, Bournemouth, Fulham, Wolves and Arsenal, submitted evidence to support the Premier League’s case. However, the tribunal ruled in favor of City, declaring certain sponsorship rules unlawful and overturning the Premier League’s decision to block two major deals.
The Premier League introduced APT rules to prevent clubs from inflating commercial deals, which would allow them to increase spending under Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules ². However, City argued that these rules are discriminatory and unfairly restrict their ability to secure fair-market sponsorship deals.
The tribunal’s decision may force the Premier League to reevaluate its financial controls, potentially paving the way for more lucrative sponsorship deals involving clubs with wealthy owners ¹. The case is separate from the ongoing hearing against Manchester City for alleged breaches of financial rules, with a verdict expected in 2025.
Key Points:
– Manchester City’s Legal Victory: City claims the ruling exposes unfair financial restrictions.
– Premier League’s Stance: The league believes APT rules ensure integrity and only need minor adjustments.
– Impact on Sponsorship Deals: The case could impact future sponsorship deals.
– Ongoing Hearing: Manchester City faces 115 charges for alleged breaches of financial rules, with a verdict expected in 2025.
Watch as Sky Sports correspondent gives update on the rulling
