Super League Allocated Millions Before Failed Launch

A group of international law firms and agencies were paid more than $4.5 million prior to the launch of the now-defunct Super League, according to Bloomberg. 

The $4 billion Super League endeavor — which rose and fell in 48 hours back in April — initially launched with 12 teams and had financial backing from JPMorgan in the form of pledged loans. 

Following its launch, the international soccer community, politicians, and governing bodies voiced disdain for the Super League and its repercussions for global soccer. 

Short-Lived and Expensive

The reported six months of time and millions of dollars spent prior to the Super League’s launch is an indication of its lengthy development and projected potential, despite how quickly it dissolved. 

• London-based law firm Clifford Chance LLP received $2.2 million for legal work.
• New York-based Latham & Watkins LLP pocketed $1.4 million in fees.
• Six public relations agencies and two media companies received almost $907,000.
• Two credit rating agencies split a total of $391,000. 

The six English teams that joined the Super League — Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United, and Tottenham — agreed to a $31.1 million settlement in June with the Premier League. 

Spanish clubs Real Madrid and Barcelona, along with Italian club Juventus, filed a legal claim in October against UEFA and FIFA, alleging that the two organizations violate European competition law by acting as both regulators and participants that profit from their oversight.

All three continue to advocate for a Super League-style concept.