Sunderland’s owners have begun exploring a sale of the Premier League club after potential investors were approached in recent weeks, according to FootBiz. The report said investment bank Moelis has been retained to oversee a possible transaction.

Kyril Louis-Dreyfus has held a 64 per cent stake in Sunderland since 2023, with Juan Sartori owning the remaining 36 per cent. Louis-Dreyfus first became involved at the club in 2021 when Sunderland were playing in League One.

Investors and funds previously interested in acquiring Premier League clubs had been offered the opportunity to review materials related to Sunderland.

Revenues to rise sharply

Sunderland revenues are expected to rise sharply following the club’s return to the Premier League and their mid-table finish this season.

The club generated one of the highest revenues in the Championship during the 2024/25 campaign, outside teams receiving parachute payments, with total operating revenue of €48 million.

 

Southampton charged by EFL over Middlesbrough training ground complaint

Southampton have been charged by the English Football League after Middlesbrough alleged a member of the club’s staff carried out unauthorised filming at their training ground before the Championship play-off semi-final between the sides.

The EFL said on Friday the case would be referred to an Independent Disciplinary Commission after Southampton were charged with allegedly breaching regulations concerning good faith between clubs and observing another club’s training session within 72 hours of a fixture.

The charges follow a complaint lodged by Middlesbrough after a man, believed to be part of Southampton’s backroom staff, was discovered at Rockliffe Park on Thursday morning. Southampton said they “acknowledge” the charges and would “be fully cooperating with the league throughout this process”.

Promotion play-off

The EFL said Southampton would ordinarily have 14 days to respond, but added it would request an expedited process because of the circumstances surrounding the case.

Middlesbrough are understood to possess CCTV footage of the incident after the individual was confronted by club personnel before leaving the training ground area.

 

Aston Villa owners in talks to buy stake in FC Annecy

Aston Villa’s ownership group, V Sports, are in advanced discussions to acquire a controlling stake in French second-tier club FC Annecy, according to The Athletic.

The report said negotiations have progressed in recent months as V Sports seek to expand their multi-club model, which already includes Portuguese side Vitoria Guimares, and Spain’s Real Union. Villa established an informal partnership with Annecy last year, sharing information on players and operational methods.

V Sports director of global football development Matthew Kidson has been overseeing links between the clubs. The Athletic reported that a formal agreement would support plans to send more Villa players to Annecy, while also improving facilities and potentially redeveloping the club’s 15,600-capacity Parc des Sports stadium.

Push for promotion

Annecy are currently seventh in Ligue 2 and remain in contention for a promotion play-off place ahead of their final match against Rodez.

Villa academy players Triston Rowe and Travis Patterson have both joined Annecy during the current season, while Villa staff have continued to visit France to monitor player development and support collaboration between the clubs. The Athletic added that V Sports have also explored investment opportunities with other European clubs.

 

Trump questions $1,000 World Cup ticket prices for US opener

US president Donald Trump said he would not pay more than $1,000 to attend the United States’ opening match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, adding to scrutiny over ticket pricing for the tournament.

In an interview with the New York Post, Trump referred to prices for the US men’s national team match against Paraguay at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles and said: “I wouldn’t pay it either, to be honest.”

At the time of writing on Friday, the cheapest available ticket on FIFA’s official ticketing platform for the match was priced at $1,220 for a category three accessible seat. The highest-priced ticket available was listed at $4,105 for a front-row category one seat, a new premium category introduced for the tournament.

Ticket prices

FIFA president Gianni Infantino earlier this week defended the pricing structure, arguing that the governing body had to reflect market conditions in the United States entertainment sector. He also pointed to the country’s secondary ticketing market as a factor affecting prices.

“We have to look at the market … in the US it is permitted to resell tickets as well,” Infantino said. “So if you were to sell tickets at the price which is too low, these tickets will be resold at a much higher price.”

Venezia have secured a €100 million investment from a group led by sports executive Tim Leiweke following the club’s promotion to Serie A, according to a club statement.

The Italian club confirmed Canadian rapper Drake, who invested in Venezia in 2024, helped introduce Leiweke and his daughter Francesca Bodie as part of the transaction.

Leiweke has held senior roles across North American sports organisations including the Los Angeles Galaxy, Los Angeles Lakers and Toronto Maple Leafs. He has been appointed co-chairman of the club’s operating committee, while Bodie will become president. Leiweke said the group aimed to make Venezia “a permanent fixture in Serie A”.

Significant minority investment.

Venezia did not disclose the structure of the investment or the size of the stake acquired by Leiweke’s group. The club described the deal as a significant minority investment.

The club returned to Italy’s top division after a 2-2 draw against Spezia secured promotion with one game remaining. Venezia had been relegated from Serie A the previous season and will now compete in the top flight in 2026-27.

Independent Football Regulator to block unlicensed gambling sponsorship

The Independent Football Regulator has been urged to prevent Premier League clubs from accepting sponsorship from gambling operators unlicensed in the UK as part of its consultation on a new licensing regime for English football clubs, according to The Guardian.

Entain, the owner of Ladbrokes and Coral, submitted a response to the regulator asking it to clarify that clubs should not be allowed to enter commercial agreements with betting companies operating unlawfully in Britain. Several Premier League clubs currently have sponsorship arrangements with unlicensed operators.

Everton, Sunderland, Fulham, Bournemouth and Burnley all have shirt sponsorship deals with gambling companies not licensed in the UK, while 18 Premier League clubs have displayed adverts for such operators on pitchside LED boards this season.

Unlicensed gambling scrutiny grows

The Premier League’s voluntary ban on front-of-shirt gambling sponsorship will begin next season, although clubs are still permitted to sign agreements with operators outside the UK regulatory system. Some clubs are expected to move existing deals to shirt sleeves.

Entain chief executive Stella David wrote to Premier League chief executive Richard Masters in February warning about links between sports piracy and unlicensed gambling.

Sky seeks up to €1.9 billion from Telecom Italia and DAZN in Serie A case

Sky has filed a lawsuit seeking up to €1.9 billion in damages from Telecom Italia (TIM) and sports streaming platform DAZN over their Serie A broadcasting agreement in Italy, according to Reuters.

Sky alleges that a 2021 distribution partnership between TIM and DAZN breached antitrust rules and was designed to exclude Sky from the market. DAZN secured exclusive domestic rights to screen all Serie A matches from 2021 to 2024 in a deal worth €2.5 billion before agreeing preferential distribution terms with TIM.

Italy’s antitrust regulator ruled in 2023 that the TIM-DAZN agreement restricted competition and fined the companies €800,000 and €7.2 million respectively after changes were made to parts of the contract.

Hearings to begin later this year

Sky is seeking €1.1 billion in compensation for lost profit, while the total claim could rise to €1.9 billion once interest payments and alleged brand devaluation are included.

TIM said it was informed of the claim on 25 March and expects key hearings to begin in the final quarter of the year.

Manchester United confirm Dave Brailsford exit from club board

Manchester United have formally confirmed Sir Dave Brailsford’s departure from the club’s board of directors, according to a Companies House filing.

The filing stated that Brailsford’s role as a director was terminated on April 30, ending his formal involvement in United’s board structure after stepping back from day-to-day duties at Old Trafford last summer.

Brailsford returned to a broader position within INEOS in 2024, focusing on his responsibilities as director of sport and work with the Grenadiers cycling team. He joined United’s board in December 2023 after Sir Jim Ratcliffe completed his minority investment in the Premier League club.

Reshapes board structure

Rob Nevin, chairman of INEOS Sport, will replace Brailsford on the board. Brailsford had remained a director alongside members of the Glazer family, former manager Sir Alex Ferguson and former chief executive David Gill.

Jean-Claude Blanc, who joined the board alongside Brailsford following Ratcliffe’s investment, also stepped away from his position last year.

Liverpool freeze future ticket rise after supporter protests

Liverpool have revised planned ticket price increases after discussions with the club’s Supporters Board and protests from fans at recent matches.

The club confirmed that a previously announced three per cent rise in general admission prices for the 2026/27 season will remain in place, but ticket prices will now be frozen for the following campaign.

Liverpool said in the statement: “Following further dialogue with its Supporters Board, the club can now confirm an inflationary increase of three percent to general admission tickets for season 2026/27, followed by a price freeze for season 2027/28.”

Plans for price increase prompted criticism

Liverpool had announced in March that ticket prices would increase by three per cent next season, with further inflation-linked rises planned for 2027/28 and 2028/29. The plans prompted criticism from supporters, including protests during the Premier League home match against Crystal Palace.

Supporters held up yellow cards across Anfield during the Crystal Palace match, while chants against the club’s ownership were heard around the stadium.

Liverpool Supporters Board said it welcomed the revised approach and would continue discussions with the club over future pricing proposals and alternative revenue options. The board added that it recognised some supporters would remain dissatisfied with next season’s increase despite the freeze for 2027/28.

The Premier League generated record revenue of £3.66 billion in 2024/25, although turnover increased by only 0.1 per cent year-on-year, according to the league’s latest financial report. Profit fell 25 per cent to £87 million.

International broadcasting remained the competition’s largest source of income, contributing £1.85 billion, equivalent to around half of total revenue. The overseas rights cycle is due to enter a new phase from 2026/27, when the Premier League plans to internalise international media production and distribution following the end of its partnership with IMG.

The figures also showed a decline in distributions to clubs. Payments fell 3.5 per cent year-on-year to £2.82 billion.

Costs Increase

Operating expenses rose 22 per cent to £556.3 million, largely due to an £80 million payment to community football linked to the Premier League’s 2021 agreement with the UK government over domestic TV rights.

The payment was triggered by lower-than-expected parachute payments, as more clubs moved between the Premier League and the Championship.

Legal costs fell slightly to just over £44 million in 2024/25, according to The Times, down from £48 million a year earlier.
 

De Tavernost warns on piracy as Ligue 1 broadcasting revenue remain under pressure

LFP Media director general Nicolas de Tavernost said piracy has cost Ligue 1+ around €100 million in lost revenue, during a hearing before the French Senate’s Culture, Education, Communication and Sport Committee on Wednesday. According to L’Equipe, de Tavernost said the platform could have attracted an additional 400,000 subscribers without illegal streaming.

The outgoing executive also referred to “potential conflicts of interest” when questioned about Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser al-Khelaïfi, who also heads beIN Media Group, following the collapse of Ligue 1+’s attempt to acquire rights for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

De Tavernost said neither the French Football Federation nor the LFP had pursued action with FIFA over the matter, which contributed to his decision to step down at the end of the season.

€11.7 million for winning Ligue 1

Separately, L’Equipe reported that Ligue 1 clubs have received preliminary estimates from the LFP projecting domestic and international TV rights revenues of €412.2 million for the 2026/27 season. After deductions including the share due to CVC Capital Partners, solidarity payments and Ligue 2 allocations, the net amount available for Ligue 1 clubs would fall to €184.1 million.

Under the current projections, the Ligue 1 champions would receive €11.7 million from domestic broadcasting revenues, while the bottom club would collect €3.6 million.
 

Real Madrid challenge RFEF and LaLiga Copa del Rey rights agreement

Real Madrid have filed a legal challenge against agreements between the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) and LaLiga covering the production and commercialisation of Copa del Rey audiovisual rights until 2031/32, according to El Confidencial.

The agreements reintroduce a centralised model for managing the competition’s broadcast rights, with the RFEF and LaLiga arguing that the structure improves production standards and strengthens the product’s position in the audiovisual market.

Real Madrid believe the arrangements exceed the organisations’ powers and restrict clubs’ ability to make independent decisions over audiovisual matters.

LaLiga defends agreements

LaLiga said it will defend the agreements, which it considers legally valid. The organisation also pointed to previous court rulings supporting centralised production, arguing the system helps protect the value and consistency of the competition’s broadcast product.

Servimedia reported that the agreement has generated €5 million more than initially forecast for the RFEF. Federation president Rafael Louzán announced the measure in September 2025 as part of renewed cooperation between the RFEF and LaLiga following his appointment.
 

Infantino defends FIFA World Cup ticket pricing policy

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has defended the governing body’s World Cup ticket pricing strategy, arguing that demand in the resale market shows supporters are willing to pay significantly more than face value for seats at the tournament.

Speaking at the Milken Institute Global Conference in Los Angeles, Infantino said FIFA had to apply “market rates” in the United States, where ticket resale laws allow seats to be sold at prices far above their original value. He added that 25 per cent of group-stage tickets had been priced below $300.

Infantino also rejected criticism that FIFA's pricing was excessive, saying tickets were still appearing on resale platforms at more than double their original price. “Even though some people are saying that the ticket prices we have are high, they still end up on the resale market at an even higher price,” he said.

Jokes and inaccurate claim

FIFA's official resale platform has listed four tickets for the 2026 World Cup final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey at more than $2 million each. Infantino joked that he would personally buy a hot dog and a Coke for any supporter willing to pay that amount.

The comments come after Football Supporters Europe filed a complaint with the European Commission in March over what it described as excessive ticket pricing for the tournament. The Times reported that Infantino also claimed tickets for US college American Football events could not be bought for less than $300, despite lower-priced seats being available from about $30.

Serie A are assessing the creation of a separate media company to manage the sale of international television rights, with the potential involvement of new investors. The proposal is at an early stage and forms part of a broader review of how the league commercialises its content abroad.

Lega Serie A president Ezio Simonelli said the league are working with advisers to explore a structure that could attract financial partners without granting governance rights. The vehicle would focus on international rights, distinct from the league’s existing domestic commercial operations.

Speaking at the Merger & Acquisition Summit 2026 organised by Il Sole 24 Ore on Tuesday, Simonelli said: “We are considering international TV rights … the possibility of creating a media company with other investors. We are at an early stage, we cannot say that we will do it, but we do not want to leave anything untried.”

Infrastructure and scheduling constraints

He added that previous discussions with investment funds had stalled over governance concerns, but the current proposal centres on a structure limited to financial participation. Simonelli said there was no widespread opposition at this stage and that further evaluation would depend on more detailed data.

Simonelli attributed the league’s international commercial challenges to stadium infrastructure and match scheduling, adding that “our biggest matches are at 20:45 and in the Middle East … people are sleeping”, which he said limits audiences in one of Serie A’s key overseas markets.
 

DAZN agrees Telenet distribution deal for Belgian Pro League coverage

DAZN has reached an agreement with Telenet to distribute its Belgian Pro League coverage, ending a prolonged period of uncertainty over the league’s domestic broadcast arrangements. The deal gives the streaming service a local partner after months without wider carriage.

From the start of the 2026/27 season, Telenet customers will be able to watch all Pro League matches live. The agreement runs for the remainder of DAZN’s current rights cycle, which is due to continue until the end of the 2029/30 campaign.

The agreement follows a dispute between DAZN and the Pro League after the streamer sought to terminate its domestic rights contract and withheld payments due under the deal. The league subsequently initiated legal proceedings to enforce the agreement.

Distribution uncertainty

In January, the Belgian Arbitration and Mediation Centre ordered DAZN to continue covering the Pro League until the end of the 2025/26 season. The ruling also required the streamer to resume negotiations with telecom companies over wider distribution.

Telenet will begin limited coverage this month, making selected play-off matches available to its television customers, including fixtures from the season-ending title play-offs.
 

Marseille face possible UEFA sanctions after alleged settlement breach

Olympique de Marseille are facing potential sanctions from UEFA after allegedly breaching the terms of a financial settlement agreed in 2022, according to L’Équipe.

The club were placed under enhanced financial monitoring after failing to meet Financial Fair Play requirements and accepted a deal with UEFA’s Club Financial Control Body that included a fine and a commitment to improve their financial position over time.

Figures submitted to the French financial regulator show Marseille’s losses have increased across the monitoring period, with deficits reported in each of the past three seasons. Sources cited by L’Équipe said the club are now considered to be “in breach” of the agreement, with a decision from UEFA expected later this month.

UEFA exclusion risk

Marseille are expected to argue that a drop in domestic television revenues has contributed to their financial position, which they may present as a mitigating factor during the review process.

If UEFA determines the breach to be limited, sanctions could include further fines or restrictions on squad registration in European competitions, while more severe findings could lead to exclusion from UEFA tournaments.
 

LaLiga to close LaLiga+ streaming platform from 30 June

LaLiga will shut down its streaming platform LaLiga+ on 30 June, ending seven years of broadcasts as it shifts away from a single-platform distribution model.

The organisation said the move reflects a shift in the audiovisual market, with audiences increasingly spread across multiple channels, reducing the role of a single streaming service.

The platform currently carries competitions including handball, as well as basketball and futsal, but LaLiga said it will now focus on enabling distribution and supporting the wider sports media ecosystem rather than operating a dedicated streaming platform.

Strategy shift

LaLiga sources told 2Playbook that the platform had met its original objectives, adding: “LaLiga+ was not created as a business in itself… but with a broader aim: to provide visibility… to numerous sports federations”.

LaLiga+ was launched as LaLigaSportsTV and has required more than €10 million in technology investment, alongside annual spending of around €5 million on media rights to support more than 45 federations.
 

American investors are among the parties interested in acquiring OGC Nice, according to Nice-Matin, as INEOS continue efforts to sell the Ligue 1 club.

Two potential buyers have emerged, one based in the United States and another in Europe, with the American group having visited the club’s facilities alongside INEOS executive Jean-Claude Blanc.

INEOS have reduced their involvement at Nice following their minority investment in Manchester United, with limited recent spending at the French club as they seek a sale.

Valuation remains unclear

INEOS initially targeted a sale price of €200m after acquiring Nice for €100m in 2019, but that valuation is now considered uncertain given the club’s current position.

Nice must first secure their Ligue 1 status for next season before any deal progresses, with their league position expected to affect the final valuation. The club are currently three points above the relegation play-off place and face AJ Auxerre next weekend in a match that could influence their immediate future.

Championship clubs express dissatisfaction after Sheffield Wednesday avoid points deduction

Championship clubs have expressed dissatisfaction after Sheffield Wednesday avoided a points deduction following their exit from administration, with the English Football League (EFL) set to review its insolvency policies, according to a report from Sky Sports.

The club’s takeover resulted in no sanction being applied, despite the 15-point penalty outlined in league rules. Some clubs had expected the policy to be enforced in this case, prompting questions over its application.

Former owner Dejphon Chansiri is owed £16 million from loans made during his tenure, but new owner David Storch declined to repay the full amount. According to Sky Sports, the EFL considered an alternative proposal to Chansiri as part of its decision.

Offer central to decision

That proposal would see Chansiri receive several million pounds if the club secure promotion at the first attempt, in a structure similar to his 2015 purchase of Wednesday.

The offer was considered credible and remained available when the decision was taken, forming part of the EFL’s assessment not to impose a points deduction.

FIFA faces World Cup broadcast uncertainty in India and China

Millions of fans in India and China risk missing next month’s World Cup as broadcast agreements remain unresolved in both markets, according to Reuters.

Negotiations in India have stalled after a joint venture between Reliance and Disney submitted a reported $20 million bid for the rights, a figure that did not meet FIFA’s expectations.

China has yet to confirm a broadcast partner despite accounting for 49.8 per cent of global digital and social viewing hours during the 2022 World Cup tournament.

Questions over distribution

India and China together represented 22.6 per cent of global digital streaming reach at the last World Cup, while China alone accounted for 17.7 per cent of linear TV reach. In India, Reliance’s media arm paid about $60 million for the 2022 rights in a deal agreed roughly 14 months before the tournament.

For previous editions, including 2018 and 2022, state broadcaster CCTV secured Chinese rights well in advance and began promotional activity ahead of kick-off.

Dutch FA wins court case over player eligibility dispute with NAC Breda

A Dutch court has dismissed a legal challenge by NAC Breda seeking a replay of a league match over the eligibility of a Go Ahead Eagles player, backing the Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB), the club have confirmed.

NAC Breda had contested their 6-0 defeat on 15 March, arguing defender Dean James was ineligible after obtaining Indonesian citizenship to pursue international selection.

The KNVB had refused to approve a replay and told the court that neither the player’s club nor the authorities had recognised the regulatory implications at the time.

200 matches at risk

Had the decision gone in NAC Breda’s favour, more than 200 matches across the top two tiers of Dutch football could have been open to similar legal challenges, including 133 in the Eredivisie.

Dual citizenship rules in the Netherlands can affect a player’s registration status, with those switching nationality potentially classified as non-EU players requiring work permits.
 

Gianni Infantino has announced he will stand for re-election as FIFA president in 2027, confirming his candidacy at the organisation’s annual Congress.

“I want to confirm to you that I will be candidate for the FIFA election of president next year,” Infantino said at the Congress.

He also told FIFA’s 211 member associations they would receive €2.3 billion in distributions over the next four years, adding that funding would increase by 20 per cent in the 2027–2030 cycle.

Support and eligibility

Support for his candidacy has already been declared by the Asian Football Confederation, Confederation of African Football and CONMEBOL, which together represent almost half of FIFA’s voting members.

Infantino, who has led FIFA since 2016 following the exit of Sepp Blatter, is eligible to stand again after FIFA determined that his initial 2016–2019 period does not count as a full term under its three-term limit, allowing him to seek a further mandate in 2027.

 

UEFA men’s club competition media rights to exceed $5 billion from 2027

Annual media-rights revenue for UEFA’s men’s club competitions is projected to surpass $5 billion annually from 2027, following a series of new broadcast agreements across international markets.

UEFA and the European Football Clubs joint venture UC3 has secured deals for 19 territories in the Americas and Europe, generating $910m for the 2027–31 cycle, according to The Athletic. The total represents an increase of almost 40 per cent compared with equivalent agreements in the current cycle.

Broadcasters including Paramount+, Canal+, Disney, ESPN, DAZN and Viaplay were awarded rights across multiple territories. UC3 said the process attracted “strong interest from a broad range of media organisations”.

Markets still to be concluded

The latest agreements take already contracted annual media-rights revenue beyond $3.8 billion, with sales processes still to conclude in Asia, the Middle East and Africa. Sources cited by The Athletic said UC3 has reached around 75 per cent of its overall target.

The competitions currently generate about $4.2 billion per year, with more than 90 per cent distributed to participating clubs.

 

US consortium completes Sheffield Wednesday takeover

Sheffield Wednesday have confirmed that a US-based group, Arise Capital Partners, have completed a takeover of the club, ending Dejphon Chansiri’s ownership.

The consortium is led by American executive David Storch and includes his son Michael Storch and Tom Costin, who is involved in multi-club investment platform Blue Crow Sports Group.

The English Football League said it would not impose a 15-point deduction following the club’s exit from administration, stating it had been “an
incredibly challenging and complex situation for all parties”.

Ownership details and conditions

As part of the agreement, Sheffield Wednesday will remain under budget restrictions for the next two seasons as a condition of continued membership in the EFL, although the club are permitted to sign new players.

The takeover was completed before a 1 May deadline, ahead of regulatory changes that will transfer oversight of ownership tests to an independent football regulator.

 

Dutch FA warn court ruling could disrupt Eredivisie competition

The Royal Dutch Football Association has warned that a court ruling due on Monday could disrupt the organisation of the Eredivisie, following a legal challenge brought by NAC Breda over player eligibility.

The case, being heard in Utrecht, relates to NAC’s complaint about Go Ahead Eagles defender Dean James, who featured in a match between the clubs on 15 March that Go Ahead won 6-0. NAC argue the player should not have been eligible to play.

According to Dutch media reports, NAC claim James lost his Dutch nationality after accepting an offer to represent Indonesia internationally in March 2025, meaning he would have required a work permit.

Fear chaos

The KNVB’s competition board had previously rejected NAC’s appeal and allowed the result to stand, despite being informed of the eligibility issue. NAC have since taken the matter to a civil court in Utrecht.

NAC state their claim relates only to the specific match and are seeking to have the result declared invalid and replayed, while the KNVB maintain that any broader legal precedent could affect multiple fixtures across the league.

“The impact of any ruling could throw Dutch football into chaos,” the KNVB said.

 

Botafogo post €50 million loss and rising liabilities despite record revenue

Botafogo reported a net loss of €50 million in their 2025 financial accounts, despite generating record revenue of €112 million during the period.

The deficit followed increased cost pressures, including an €18 million rise in player amortisation, which outweighed a €10 million reduction in wage expenses. Revenue was supported by player trading activity.

The club generated around €49 million in profit on player sales, marking a sharp increase on the previous year where they reached less than €9 million. Transfers involving Luiz Henrique and Thiago Almada were identified as key contributors.

Liabilities pressure and audit concerns

The accounts also show €189 million in outstanding payments related to player acquisitions, forming the largest share of total liabilities of around €340 million. Short-term obligations due within 12 months reached €231 million, including €151 million owed to suppliers and other creditors.

Independent auditor BDO declined to issue an opinion on the accounts, citing “limitations of scope and lack of sufficient evidence”, while the report also points to negative working capital of €163 million and ongoing financial pressure linked to transfer-related commitments.

 

Las Vegas investor submits offer to buy and relocate Whitecaps

Major League Soccer has received a formal bid from a Las Vegas-based investor to acquire the Vancouver Whitecaps and relocate the club, according to The Athletic.

The prospective buyer is Grant Gustavson, who has submitted the offer to the league with plans to move the franchise to Las Vegas. Details of the proposed transaction, including valuation and timeline, have not been disclosed.

In a statement, Gustavson’s group said: “An investor group, led by Grant Gustavson, submitted a bid for consideration to the MLS League Office… we are refraining from sharing details of our proposal.”

The Athletic reported that the bid includes a commitment to privately finance a football-specific stadium in Las Vegas, with the option of using a temporary venue during construction. MLS owners have also discussed the potential relocation in recent meetings.

Local response

The development has prompted renewed efforts in Vancouver to secure the club’s future, with political leaders and supporters urging stakeholders to find a solution to keep the team in the city.

The Whitecaps said they have held discussions with more than 100 potential ownership groups over the past 16 months but have yet to receive an offer that would keep the club in Vancouver, while MLS confirmed further talks with local authorities are planned.

Nasser al-Khelaïfi has criticised LFP Media’s handling of international rights as Ligue 1+ subscriptions decline, raising concerns over revenue generation at a Ligue de Football Professionnel (LFP) board meeting on Wednesday.

The Paris Saint-Germain president said the league’s commercial arm was not doing enough to develop overseas markets, according to L'Équipe. International rights for Ligue 1 are estimated at around €130 million this season.

He argued that stronger commercial efforts abroad were needed to increase income, particularly as domestic broadcast revenues remain under pressure. The issue was discussed alongside wider concerns over how television revenues are allocated among clubs.

Broadcasting revenue outlook

Clubs were also presented with projections showing domestic media income for 2026/27 could remain broadly unchanged despite the end of agreements with beIN Media Group and DAZN, while Ligue 1+ subscriptions are estimated at around one million.

Responding to the criticism, LFP Media said it had resumed international sales in 2024/25 and generated €126 million last season, rising to €137 million in the current campaign, adding that it is close to finalising a three-year rights deal in Spain.
 

MLS secure up to $200 million KKR investment for Next Pro overhaul

Major League Soccer (MLS) has agreed a deal with private equity firm KKR that could see up to $200 million invested into MLS Next Pro, reshaping the league’s development tier and commercial structure.

MLS and KKR said they have created a joint venture, Hometown Soccer Holdings, which will take control of commercial operations across most of the 30-team competition. These include ticketing, sponsorship, media rights, venue agreements and other revenue streams, while clubs retain responsibility for sporting operations.

According to Sportico, the investment will be deployed in stages and may vary depending on club participation. Commissioner Don Garber said the partnership would accelerate player development, adding: “It is a real accelerant for our entire development program.”

New operating structure

The new entity will be led by chief executive Tom Glick and president Chris Klein, following approval from MLS club owners earlier this year. The arrangement allows clubs to opt into the commercial platform for their Next Pro teams.

MLS launched Next Pro in 2022 to bridge academy and first-team football and expand its presence in new markets. The league is now exploring relocating and rebranding teams to reach untapped fan bases, alongside potential real estate developments linked to venues.
 

Serie A president urges political alignment to address revenue gaps

Serie A president Ezio Simonelli has called for closer cooperation with the Italian government to address structural and financial challenges facing the league.

Speaking at a parliamentary hearing, Simonelli said Italian football risks falling behind its European peers due to stagnant domestic broadcast revenues and underdeveloped stadium infrastructure, which continues to limit matchday income.

He pointed to a widening gap between clubs’ stadium earnings in Italy and abroad, adding that outdated venues reduce both revenue potential and fan experience. “We can only emerge from this crisis if politics and Serie A sit on the same side of the table,” Simonelli said.

Broadcast constraints

Simonelli said Serie A have not experienced the same increase in media rights values as other major European leagues because telecom companies - businesses that provide mobile, broadband and TV services - are not allowed to take part in the bidding process.

He added that, in other markets, their involvement has increased competition for rights and contributed to higher broadcast revenues.
 

CAF backs Infantino re-election for FIFA presidency in 2027

The Confederation of African Football has announced unanimous support for the re-election of Gianni Infantino as president of FIFA in 2027.

CAF said its member associations agreed the position during a meeting held in Vancouver on the eve of FIFA’s 76th Congress. The mandate in question would cover the 2027 to 2031 cycle.

Infantino, elected in 2016 and re-elected in 2019 and 2023, has not formally declared his candidacy. However, FIFA statutes allow him to stand again after his first term was classified as incomplete following the departure of his predecessor, Sepp Blatter.

Growing support

Support from CAF’s 54 member associations follows a similar position taken by CONMEBOL, which represents 10 national federations.

The next FIFA presidential election is scheduled for 2027, when the organisation’s 211 member associations will vote at the 77th Congress. The date and host location for that congress are expected to be confirmed during the current meeting in Vancouver.

FIFA will increase the total financial distribution to teams at the upcoming World Cup by 15 per cent, raising the overall allocation to €745 million, according to a FIFA statement.

The decision follows requests from national associations concerned about rising costs linked to the tournament. FIFA said the increase would be funded through the competition’s commercial performance.

Preparation funding for qualified teams will rise from €1.3 million to €2.1 million. In addition, the payment for qualifying for the tournament will increase from €7.7 million to €8.5 million.

Higher payments linked to rising costs

FIFA has also allocated an additional €13.7 million to cover expenses related to federation delegations, alongside an increase in ticket allocations for participating teams.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino said the organisation’s financial position enabled the higher distribution, stating: “FIFA is proud to be in its most solid financial position ever, enabling us to help all our Member Associations in an unprecedented way.”

West Ham appoint Karim Virani as interim CEO

West Ham United have appointed Karim Virani as interim chief executive officer following the departure of Karren Brady earlier this month after 16 years in a senior role.

The club confirmed the appointment in a statement, with Virani returning after previously working at West Ham between 2015 and 2020, where he led digital, marketing and commercial operations.

Virani said his immediate focus would be on supporting head coach Nuno Espírito Santo and the team. “I am determined to do everything I can to help the club achieve our objectives… nothing will distract us from that”.

Leadership changes

Virani will take responsibility for the club’s day-to-day operations during the interim period, including oversight of commercial activity following the recent departure of executive director Nathan Thompson.

He has held roles across sport, technology, financial services, telecommunications and broadcast, and most recently was a board member at non-league side Hashtag United after a spell as commercial director at Rangers between 2023 and 2025.

FIFA consider rule requiring U21 homegrown player on pitch

FIFA is set to consult on a proposal that would require clubs to field at least one homegrown under-21 player at all times during matches.

World football’s governing body said its council had unanimously approved the launch of a consultation process involving relevant stakeholders, with the outcome due to be presented to the FIFA Council within the next year.

According to The Athletic, discussions among the six confederation presidents this week were described as positive, although no final decision has been taken. One source said the talks were intended “to aid player development”.

Consultation to define criteria

The consultation will also consider how a homegrown player should be defined under the proposal and is expected to focus on both leading clubs and middle-ranking member associations.

FIFA’s discussions come alongside existing domestic regulations, including in the Premier League, where clubs are limited to a maximum of 17 non-homegrown players in a 25-man squad, but are not required to use such players during matches.

Los Angeles FC offer to sell Swiss club Grasshopper after fan protests

Los Angeles FC (LAFC) have said they are open to selling the Swiss club Grasshopper Club Zürich following supporter protests, according to a statement published on the club’s official website.

The MLS franchise, which acquired a majority stake in January 2024, said it would consider a partial or full sale if it ensured the club’s long-term sustainability. The move follows unrest among fans, including protests at a recent home match and incidents after a Swiss Cup semi-final defeat.

Grasshopper have remained near the bottom of the Swiss Super League since the takeover and are currently 11th in the 12-team table with four rounds remaining. In the statement, LAFC said: “Recent protests have called for us to leave the club… we are open to discussions regarding a partial or full sale.”

Financial pressures persist

The owners said operating costs continue to exceed revenues, adding that the club relies on external funding to compete. They warned that without continued investment, the club could not operate as a professional organisation.

Grasshopper, who share the Letzigrund stadium with city rivals FC Zurich, are facing a potential relegation play-off for a second consecutive season as results on the pitch remain unchanged.

The Deutsche Fussball-Liga (DFL) have agreed a €100 million investment from Adidas to support the Bundesliga and 2. Bundesliga, according to a DFL statement.

The German sportswear company will provide funding aimed at supporting the leagues’ central marketing activities, with allocation to be determined by the DFL’s executive board in agreement with its 36 member clubs.

DFL president Hans-Joachim Watzke said: “Adidas and the DFL will jointly contribute to a positive future for German professional football… The financing model offers an important option for investing in the growth of the Bundesliga and 2.Bundesliga in economically dynamic times.”

Match ball agreement extended

Adidas have also extended their existing agreement to supply the official match ball for both divisions, with the deal now running until 2034.

The company had previously been set to begin supplying match balls from the 2026/27 season under an agreement due to expire in 2030, but the revised terms lengthen the partnership beyond its original term.

US fund buys 16 per cent stake in Benfica

A US investment fund has agreed to acquire a 16.38 per cent stake in SL Benfica SAD, through a vehicle backed by Entrepreneur Equity Partners and other investors, including Francesca Bodie, becoming the club’s second-largest shareholder, according to a Benfica press release.

The deal follows a previous US investment after Lenore Sports Partners acquired a minority stake last year, extending the presence of US capital in the club.

The shares are being sold by José António dos Santos and entities linked to his family business, Grupo Valouro, with completion subject to shareholder approval and expected by the end of July.

Bond increase approved

Separately, Benfica SAD said it has increased the size of its 2026–2031 bond to €65 million after approval from Portugal’s securities regulator CMVM.

The club raised the offer from an initial €40 million, with a fixed gross interest rate of 4.65 per cent, and said the issue would exceed the €50 million bond maturing in May 2026 while keeping projected net debt broadly stable.

Brighton outline plans for £80 million purpose-built women’s stadium

Brighton & Hove Albion are planning to build a purpose-built women’s football stadium costing £75-80 million. The project would be the first of its kind in Europe and is targeted to open for the 2030/31 season.

The club said in a statement that the proposed venue would be located at Bennett’s Field, next to the Amex Stadium, with a minimum capacity of 10,000. The development would include a bridge walkway connecting the new ground to the existing stadium.

Zoe Johnson, the club’s managing director for women’s and girls’ football, said: “The prospect of a bespoke stadium, built exclusively for women's players, staff and supporters, is incredibly exciting,” The club added that the stadium is intended to provide a permanent home for the women’s team and support long-term fan growth.

Aimed at families

Plans include changing rooms, recovery areas and a pitch designed to elite standards, alongside matchday features aimed at families and first-time attendees. These include baby changing areas, breastfeeding rooms and designated space for prams.

Brighton currently play most of their Women’s Super League (WSL) matches at Crawley Town’s Broadfield Stadium, around 20 miles away, although some fixtures are held at the Amex Stadium. The new venue could also be used for academy and development matches.

MLS owners discuss potential relocation of Vancouver Whitecaps to Las Vegas

A group of Major League Soccer (MLS) owners have discussed the potential relocation of Vancouver Whitecaps, including a possible move to Las Vegas, according to a report from The Athletic.

A special committee met earlier this month to assess the club’s future, with Las Vegas identified as the leading option among markets considered. Other cities, including Phoenix, have also attracted interest from potential investors.

The Whitecaps confirmed ongoing uncertainty around the club’s future, stating: “Since December 2024, ownership has prioritised finding a buyer committed to keeping the team in Vancouver … no solution has been found.”

Options under review

The club’s ownership is actively seeking a sale while working on a new stadium solution in Vancouver, with their lease at BC Place due to expire at the end of the year. The absence of a local ownership group has increased the possibility of relocation.

MLS said it would continue to support efforts to secure the club’s future in Vancouver but acknowledged structural challenges linked to stadium economics, scheduling and limited commercial backing. The league added it would consider all options, including interest from other markets, subject to approval from club owners.

The referee designator for Serie A and Serie B, Gianluca Rocchi, is under investigation by prosecutors in Milan over alleged sporting fraud linked to VAR protocol and referee appointments. Authorities have requested that Rocchi attend questioning next week, with the case examining whether selections favoured Inter Milan in several matches.

Rocchi has suspended himself from his role as head of the National Referees’ Committee (CAN), while colleague Andrea Gervasoni has also stepped aside. Five fixtures from the past two seasons are under scrutiny, with three including Inter. No clubs or players are under investigation.

In a statement, Rocchi said: “I have decided to suspend myself… to allow the legal proceedings to run their course properly; I am certain I will emerge from this unscathed.” He added that the decision was taken with the referees’ association to ensure operations continue without disruption.

Investigation widens

According to Calcio e Finanza, Rocchi and Gervasoni are among a group of five individuals under investigation, which also include three VAR operators.

The case was opened more than a year ago and could prompt a review of a previously closed FIGC inquiry on the matter.
 

Norwegian FA president backs ethics complaint against Infantino

The president of the Norwegian Football Association, Lise Klaveness, has backed an ethics complaint against Gianni Infantino over his role in awarding FIFA’s Peace Prize to Donald Trump.

Klaveness said she supports a formal complaint submitted to FIFA’s ethics committee, which alleges breaches of the organisation’s rules on political neutrality. The complaint relates to Infantino’s relationship with Trump and the creation of the Peace Prize.

According to The Athletic, she criticised the process behind the award, stating: “We don’t think it’s part of FIFA’s mandate to give such a prize.” Klaveness also called for the abolition of the prize.

Complaint filed by campaign group

The complaint was submitted in December by FairSquare, which campaigns on labour and human rights issues, and has asked FIFA to investigate what it describes as repeated breaches of neutrality rules. FIFA has not disclosed how the Peace Prize winner was selected or who was involved in the decision.

Klaveness said the case should be assessed through FIFA’s internal processes and handled transparently, while Infantino has defended the decision to award Trump and said the US president “objectively…deserves it”.
 

Fiorentina offer €55 million for stadium redevelopment under conditions

ACF Fiorentina have submitted an expression of interest to the City of Florence to invest €55 million in the second phase of the Stadio Artemio Franchi renovation, according to a statement from the club. The stadium project has been under way since it was first announced in 2020.

The proposal, signed by owner Rocco Commisso, would cover the remaining funding required to complete the project, which has faced a financing gap following the withdrawal of previously allocated public funds.

The club said their investment would depend on meeting specific requirements, including cost oversight, defined construction timelines and the handover of the construction site after the first phase of works.

Euro 2032 bid

Italian sports minister Andrea Abodi visited the stadium site on Monday with mayor Sara Funaro and club officials, as authorities reviewed progress on the ongoing first phase of construction.

The first phase is scheduled for completion on 16 February 2027, with final testing concluding by 30 April, while the full redevelopment is planned to finish in 2029 ahead of use from the 2029/30 season, as Florence prepares to submit its Euro 2032 host city bid.
 

Levski Sofia agree takeover and unveil €120 million stadium project

Bulgarian side PFC Levski Sofia have signed an agreement for a change in ownership that will see Atanas Bostandzhiev become the club’s new majority shareholder, while also presenting plans for a new stadium, the club have revealed. The deal for the controlling stake remains subject to final completion.

Majority owner since 2020, Nasko Sirakov, will remain as president but will no longer hold shares. The club said the process included legal and financial due diligence by both parties, alongside work on a joint development strategy.

Sirakov said: “Today I step down as a shareholder with the understanding that Levski has stability, direction and a foundation on which to build.”

Stadium plans

Levski and architectural and engineering company IPA presented the stadium concept at a press conference, outlining design, financing and expected outcomes. The project envisages a full redevelopment into a multifunctional venue meeting UEFA Category IV requirements. The investment is estimated at €120 million, with construction expected to begin in spring 2027.

Levski Sofia are on track to win the Bulgarian first division this season with an 11-point lead and five games remaining, which would qualify them for the Champions League qualifying round next season.