UEFA and Football Supporters Europe formalise partnership with landmark Memorandum of Understanding
Monday, January 23, 2023
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Agreement reaffirms joint support of the European football pyramid and commitments to improve the experience of fans attending UEFA competition matches
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UEFA and Football Supporters Europe today signed in Nyon their first ever Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The institutional agreement formalises the progressive relationship between UEFA and Football Supporters Europe, the body representing the interests of football fans at European level. This momentous occasion takes the relationship to new levels, setting out the priorities and structure of cooperation between the two organisations until 2026.
The agreement outlines continued support by both organisations of the European football pyramid, including the central role of federations in overseeing the organisation and functioning of the sport, the open system of promotion and relegation within domestic leagues culminating with qualification to European competitions, top-down financial solidarity, as well as football’s role in cultural identity and its social and educational functions.
In keeping with the UEFA Convention on the Future of European Football, UEFA is committed to bringing together a wider spectrum of representatives of the entire football community to ensure there is broad and varying range of opinions to build a sustainable future for football that benefits everyone. This Memorandum of Understanding is a further extension to that inclusive governance model ensuring the views of fans are adequately represented in the decision-making process in European football structures.
The agreement specifies key joint priorities including initiatives to safeguard and enhance fan experience while attending football matches in UEFA club and national team competitions, the promotion and integration of the supporter liaison officer (SLO) role, and the development of structured fan dialogue policies at national level across Europe.
UEFA President, Aleksander Čeferin:
"Without the continued loyalty of football fans, the game would not enjoy its success and popularity. UEFA is committed to ensuring that the needs and viewpoints of fans are a key consideration. Today’s landmark 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 in the years to come to ensure the game is a safe, secure, and welcoming place for all."
Executive Director for Football Supporters Europe, Ronan Evain:
"Today is an exciting milestone for FSE. The MoU demonstrates that UEFA understands the value and importance of football fans, whether it’s through protecting the future of European football, helping supporters have influence within their clubs and at national level, protecting human rights, or raising awareness around the positive contribution that supporters make to the game. We believe the joint commitments of the agreement will benefit all fans and we are excited to begin a new chapter of work together."