Norwegian club SK Brann wins landmark case on free speech
The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has determined that the Norwegian club SK Brann is not required to pay the fine imposed by UEFA for fans chanting "UEFA Mafia".
The CAS ruled that SK Brann is not obliged to pay the €5,000 fine UEFA imposed following the incident involving the club's fans. During a Women's Champions League match, the fans chanted "UEFA Mafia" and displayed banners with the same message.
CAS emphasised that UEFA's regulations should be interpreted in light of basic human rights, such as freedom of speech. SK Brann's president, Aslak Sverdrup, expressed satisfaction with the decision, underscoring its importance in safeguarding freedom of expression.
We are very pleased with the ruling from Cas. It’s not every day a club from Norway moves all of football Europe, but today we actually do. In a world where freedom of speech is under attack, this is an important and correct ruling, said Sverdrup.
UEFA obliged to reimburse costs
The CAS decision means that UEFA must reimburse SK Brann for the legal costs incurred. The club stated in its announcement that the term "UEFA Mafia" is not offensive or provocative but rather a satirical and critical commentary on authority.
CAS agrees that the term "UEFA Mafia" is not offensive or provocative. It cannot justify the imposition of a fine. It was a satirical and critical statement against authority, the club explained in a communiqué.
