UEFA and Football Supporters Europe today signed their first Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) ever. The institutional agreement formalizes the ongoing relationship between UEFA and Football Supporters Europe, the body representing the interests of football fans at European level. This landmark event takes the relationship to a new level, defining the priorities and structure of cooperation between the two organizations until 2026.
The agreement highlights the continued support of both organizations in the European football pyramid, including the central role of the associations in overseeing the organization and functioning of the game, the open system of promotion and relegation in domestic leagues culminating in qualification for European competitions, the top-down system of financial solidarity, as well as the role of football in cultural identity and its social and educational functions.
In line with the UEFA Convention on the Future of European Football, UEFA is committed to bringing together a broader spectrum of representatives from across the football community to ensure that there is a wide and varied range of views to build a sustainable future for the football that benefits everyone. This Memorandum of Understanding is a further extension of that inclusive governance model, ensuring that supporters’ views are adequately represented in the decision-making process in European football structures.
The agreement spells out key joint priorities, including initiatives to safeguard and enhance the supporters’ experience while watching football matches in UEFA club and national competitions, the promotion and integration of the supporter liaison officer (SLO) role and the development of structured dialogue policies with supporters at national level across Europe.
Aleksander Čeferin, President of UEFA:
“Without the continued loyalty of football fans, the game would not have all its success and popularity. UEFA is committed to ensuring that the needs and views of fans are a key consideration. Today’s historic agreement shows that here at UEFA this is not an empty sentiment. We look forward to working with Football Supporters Europe on behalf of football fans for years to come to ensure that football is a safe and welcoming place for everyone.”
Ronan Evain, Director-Executivo da Football Supporters Europe:
“Today is an exciting milestone for the FSE. The MoU demonstrates that UEFA understands the value and importance of football supporters, whether it’s protecting the future of European football, helping supporters to have influence at their clubs and at national level, protecting human rights or raising awareness of the positive contribution supporters make to the game. We believe the joint commitments in the agreement will benefit all supporters and we are excited to start a new chapter of working together”.
2023-01-23 08:00:00
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