Eredivisie Statement on new UCC solidarity mechanism

Considering the substantial increase of both matches and revenues generated by the new UCC format, the European Leagues has been able to negotiate and agree with UEFA on a higher share of financial resources to be distributed to those clubs which are not participating in the European competitions. This good result was also granted by the decision of the top five leagues to further cap their due share from the previous cycle thus generating an extra wave of solidarity which will benefit all non-participating clubs in other countries.

The Leagues are particularly proud of the introduction of a new “Competitive Balance” pillar in the distribution system. The objective of this new allocation element is to create a direct link between the performance of participating clubs and the distribution to non-participating clubs in the same country. This measure, initially suggested by the Leagues, seeks to mitigate the impact created by UCC distribution in domestic league football. 

Through the years, the European Leagues and its members have been always at the forefront in sensibilizing UEFA and the whole football family for the need to implement fairer revenue distribution models so to protect the competitive balance within domestic league competitions. Domestic and international solidarity mechanisms are vital to help all clubs in the football pyramid to safeguard their competitiveness on and off the pitch while keeping investing in youth and talent development.

The European Leagues thank UEFA for the good cooperation during this process and for embracing our members’ long-term request to enhance solidarity for non-participating clubs.

Jan de Jong, CEO of the Eredivisie, explains what this means for Dutch clubs: “A significant negotiation result has been achieved by the European Leagues. They have helped increase the percentage of this solidarity scheme from four to seven percent of all media revenues from UEFA. Importantly, these media revenues have risen to €4.4 billion annually, up from €2.8 billion previously.”

“Specifically, this translates to an increase from €185 million to €308 million. This amount will be distributed annually across all European competitions, meaning that several million will go to the Eredivisie. These are additional revenues for clubs that do not compete in Europe. Moreover, the European Leagues have agreed that only €50 million of the €308 million will go to the five major leagues (England, France, Germany, Spain, and Italy). And not to be overlooked: the Eredivisie voluntarily allocates 15% of its share to the Keuken Kampioen Divisie for the sake of solidarity.”