By Andrea Caropreso
Index
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The long-awaited UEFA rulings have arrived, determining which clubs will face sanctions for breaching Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations, and which will not. Roma managed to narrowly avoid punishment thanks to Abraham’s sale on the final eligible day, June 30, while Inter and Milan were found to be compliant. Juventus is also under observation, though it has not received a fine yet, as its final assessment has been postponed until 2026. Elsewhere in Europe, heavy penalties have hit clubs such as Chelsea and Barcelona.
Roma Sanctioned, Green Light for Inter and Milan
UEFA has issued the first sanctions under the new financial sustainability rules. Among the Italian clubs, Roma was fined €3 million for slightly exceeding the intermediate target set in the 2022 settlement agreement, valid through 2026. Despite end-of-June efforts to finalize transfers and generate capital gains, the Giallorossi narrowly missed the goal.
In contrast, other Italian clubs previously involved in settlement agreements — Inter and Milan — fully met the financial requirements and have successfully completed their three-year financial recovery plans. Juventus, despite a large €195 million loss in 2024 (largely due to its exclusion from European competitions), has been granted an extension, with final judgment deferred thanks to projected financial improvements by 2025.
Juventus’ Situation
Juventus completed its three-year agreement with UEFA without violating the new “Squad Cost Rule” — which limits wage and amortization spending to 80% of revenue — staying within the allowed threshold for wages, amortization, and agent fees.
However, in terms of the “Football Earnings Rule” — which governs financial losses — the club recorded a €195 million loss in 2024, mostly due to missing out on European competitions. UEFA recognized this extraordinary situation and postponed the final ruling to spring 2026, when the financials as of June 30, 2025, will also be reviewed. Projections indicate a return to compliance with the rules.
Wave of Sanctions in Europe: Chelsea and Barça Hit Hard
Across Europe, UEFA sanctioned several clubs for violating the new Football Earnings Rule, which limits cumulative losses to €60 million over three years. Notable clubs penalized include Chelsea, Aston Villa, and Barcelona, which entered multi-year settlement agreements with fines of up to €80, €20, and €60 million, respectively. Olympique Lyonnais, Hajduk Split, and Porto were also fined, with the Portuguese club ordered to pay €5 million.
In addition to monetary penalties, these clubs will face restrictions on player registrations and must meet annual targets. Beşiktaş and Panathinaikos were also flagged under the “Squad Cost Rule” and fined for exceeding spending limits. UEFA clarified that failure to meet agreed terms could result in exclusion from its competitions.
By Andrea Caropreso
