Football Supporters Europe (FSE) met with representatives of the European Commission’s Sport Unit in February, continuing its dialogue with EU policymakers to ensure that supporters’ priorities remain central to discussions on the future of European sport policy.
The meeting provided an opportunity to raise several pressing matters affecting fans across the continent, including dynamic ticket pricing, threats to move domestic matches abroad, Multi-Club Ownership (MCO), and more.
FSE underlined the need for stronger governance standards and meaningful stakeholder representation within football citing its cooperation agreement with UEFA as an example of what can be achieved. Supporters must be properly involved in decision-making processes at club and governing body level, with minimum standards for fan engagement developed and applied across the game.
We also highlighted the importance of protecting club heritage, including names, colours and stadiums, and stressed that football clubs are cultural and community assets, not merely commercial vehicles to be exploited.
Financial sustainability and solidarity were key themes in the discussions. FSE expressed concern about the growing financial gap within European football and the impact this has on competitive balance and grassroots sport.
FSE also raised concerns about ownership models, including MCO structures, and the need for greater transparency and oversight to safeguard the long-term integrity of European football.
The increasing cost of watching football was another major topic of discussion. FSE highlighted concerns around dynamic ticket pricing and rising matchday costs – football must remain accessible to supporters regardless of income.
Wider structural issues were also addressed, including proposals to stage domestic league matches abroad, the protection of national competitions within an expanding international calendar, and the need to safeguard open competition and sporting merit.
Owing to the sizable common ground, this was another constructive exchange with the Commission that reinforces the importance of continued dialogue between supporters and EU institutions. As key policy developments are expected in 2026, FSE will continue to ensure that the interests of fans, and the principles underpinning the European Sport Model, remain firmly on the European agenda.
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