Manchester City has launched a new legal challenge against the Premier League, claiming that the revised sponsorship rules, particularly the Associated Party Transaction (APT) rules, remain “unlawful.”
This follows a successful legal challenge in June, where City argued that the original APT rules, aimed at limiting how much associated companies can financially support clubs, were part of “a tyranny of the majority.”
An independent arbitration tribunal ruled some of the rules unlawful, prompting City to warn of further legal action if the Premier League rushed amendments.
After City lost a vote in November 2024, where a majority of clubs approved changes to the APT rules, they have now initiated further arbitration.
Their barrister Lord Pannick requested a new review, focusing on the amendments related to shareholder loans from owners or directors.
City’s legal team also criticized the Premier League for allegedly misleading clubs about the tribunal’s findings, claiming their interpretation was incorrect.
Premier League CEO Richard Masters confirmed the latest challenge in a letter to clubs on January 20, 2025.
He emphasized that the Premier League believes the new APT rules comply with competition law and remain valid.
Despite City’s legal challenge, the rules are still in effect, and clubs must comply.
The tribunal will hear the case soon, with both parties seeking a swift resolution.
Only 4 clubs, including City, opposed the November amendments, while 16 others voted in favor.
This article was updated 3 days ago
