ECA Chairman meets with EU Sports Commissioner

Discussions focused on a number of important topics, including the election of the new FIFA President and the need for the world governing body to pursue deep-rooted reforms leading to more meaningful club involvement in decision-making bodies. Karl-Heinz Rummenigge stressed the important and positive developments that had taken place over the last few years within UEFA in this regard and suggested this could serve as an example to FIFA. The subject of UEFA and its future direction were also addressed.

On the issue of the transfers, Karl-Heinz Rummenigge reiterated the importance of contractual stability as a central element of the system. In addition, it was mentioned that the current system acts as a crucial solidarity mechanism allowing for financial flows and a re-distribution of revenue from the top clubs right down the pyramid.

The on-going work of the European Commission in the area of the single digital market also allowed for Karl-Heinz Rummenigge to remind Commissioner Navracsics of the importance of maintaining the territorial concept (geo-blocking) given its central role in financing the game.

Finally, ECA stressed its strong support to the European Commission's work in relation to the EU Week of Sport and its commitment to support the initiative in 2016.

Commenting on the meeting, Karl-Heinz Rummenigge stated:

     "I am very happy to have met with Tibor Navracsics once again and share with him ECA's views and vision for the further development of football in Europe at this crucial time in the history of the game. I look forward to further our exchanges throughout the continuation of his mandate at the European Commission."

Commissioner Navracsics added:

     "Football is facing serious challenges and I believe that the solution lies in a process of fundamental reform with the involvement of all relevant stakeholders. I will continue to follow and support this process for the good of the game and all those who love it."