Sport in the European Union

EU slaps EUR 12.5m antitrust fine on Nike

The EU Commission fined Nike EUR 12.5 million Monday for banning traders from selling the licensed merchandise of some of Europe's best-known football clubs to other countries within the EEA.

Messi can register 'MESSI' trademark says EU Court

Lionel Messi, the world's best-paid footballer, can register the trademark 'MESSI' for sports equipment and clothing, the EU's top Court ruled Thursday despite a Spanish company's 'MASSI' trademark.

Brussels confirms antitrust raids on sports media firms

EU officials carried out unannounced inspections in several Member States at the premises of companies active in the distribution of media rights and related rights relating to sports events and broadcasting.

Brussels extends cooperation with UEFA

The EU Commission and the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) signed a new agreement Wednesday to consolidate and strengthen their cooperation in the period up to the end of 2020.

No tax break for bridge, as it's not a sport: EU Court

Bridge is not a 'sport' and cannot be exempt from the EU's VAT Directive, the European Court of Justice court ruled Thursday, though it does come under the concept of 'cultural services'.

Barcelona, Real Madrid 'in breach of EU state aid rules'

Barcelona and Real Madrid were among seven Spanish football clubs deemed by the European Commission Monday to have been granted unfair advantage under EU state aid rules.

Football clubs eligible for compensation, EU Court rules

The European Court of Justice has ruled that football clubs who have trained and prepared young players may seek compensation if that player wishes to sign their first contract with a different club within the European Union.