
PitchSideMonitor
February 25, 2025 at 01:06 PM
https://www.delo.si/english/exclusive-interview-aleksander-ceferin-uefa-president-freedom-of-speech-politics
🔍 Champions League Reform Success: Čeferin claims that 99% of fans now support the new Champions League format, which has made the competition more unpredictable and exciting for both clubs and sponsors.
🔍 US Market Expansion: UEFA is negotiating future TV rights with the agency Relevent but has not discussed moving the Champions League final to the United States, contrary to media rumors.
🔍 Player Fatigue Debate: Čeferin acknowledges that players are overworked but points out that clubs need more matches to sustain high salaries. He finds it ironic that the best-paid players complain the most.
🔍 European Decline: Čeferin criticizes Europe's strict regulations, lack of unity, and economic competitiveness, arguing that the EU is losing global influence while China and the US advance.
🔍 Freedom of Speech Erosion: He expresses concern about increasing political correctness in Western societies, stating that people can no longer freely express opinions without backlash.
🔍 Geopolitical Concerns: Čeferin warns that the world is in its most dangerous state since WWII, with aggressive leaders, indecisive politicians, and Europe sidelined in global decision-making.
🔍 Sport as a Unifier: He highlights UEFA's efforts to bridge political divides, like Serbia and Albania co-hosting the Euro U-21, while criticizing politics for preventing Russian U-17 participation.