Manchester City and Premier League Settle Dispute Over Sponsorship Rules
Manchester City and the Premier League have reached a settlement regarding their dispute over the regulations governing commercial agreements.
The club had initiated a legal challenge against the Premier League, arguing that the new rules concerning sponsorship agreements were "unlawful." However, as part of the settlement, Manchester City has acknowledged that the rules governing associated party transactions (APT) are valid and binding.
A joint statement from both parties noted, "Neither the Premier League nor the club will be making any further comment about the matter."
Last year, an independent arbitration panel ruled against certain aspects of the Premier League's APT regulations following a lawsuit initiated by the club.
The Premier League established these rules to prevent clubs from benefiting from commercial agreements with companies associated with their owners that are considered to exceed "fair market value." In November 2024, a majority of clubs in the top flight voted to approve amendments to the APTs, despite opposition from Manchester City.