The Premier League clubs that were involved in the plans surrounding the Super League can expect a sky-high fine, so know The Telegraph Friday to report. The organization behind the English top league wants the six clubs involved to experience ‘considerable’ financial consequences. An official ruling from the Premier League is expected soon.
The Premier League is said to be planning to impose a hefty fine on Manchester United, Manchester City, Liverpool, Chelsea, Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur. Although the clubs are reportedly escaping point deduction next season, they must ‘see the seriousness of the matter’. The fine will be ‘significant’ to make it clear that the other fourteen clubs in the league are also taking the matter very seriously.
Furthermore, it is not yet clear whether the fine must be paid immediately and what the amount will be. The newspaper indicates that it is also being considered to punish the teams involved by withholding TV money from next season. At the end of this month, income from the sale of broadcasting rights will be divided among the Premier League clubs. The main allegation against the six teams is the violation rule L9, stating that ‘all participating teams in the Premier League must give written permission to those interested to start a new league’.
It is quite unique that hefty penalties are handed out in the Premier League and it is certainly rare to hand out points deductions. In 2010, points were last deducted from a Premier League club. At the time, Portsmouth was unable to meet its financial obligations and the club was deducted nine points. Furthermore, it is unknown whether the teams will ultimately be able to appeal the possible punishment that lies ahead.
Earlier this week, the organization of the Premier League also came out with a statement. The official website said that “preparations are underway to avoid plans to set up alternative competitions.” With the regulations yet to be determined, the basic principles of the Premier League must be protected and the competition must ‘remain fair’. “We appeal to government support to enact appropriate legislation to protect the open pyramid of football, the principles of sporting merit and the integrity of the football community,” the statement read.