Norwegian Club So On Sunday, he claimed to win the freedom of speech with the Sport Arbitration Court (CAS) that it does not have to pay a fine imposed by UEFA after fans sang “UEFA MAFIA” and displayed banners with the same news.
The European football management body was fined by Brann 5,000 euros ($ 500) for the “provocative offensive reports” in the game of the female Champions League and refused to dismiss the club last year.
Brann was also fined on another occasion and the club took the matter of CAS, which, as stated, agreed that the UEFA rules “must be interpreted with regard to fundamental human rights, such as freedom of expression”.
“We are very satisfied with the decision from CAS,” said Brann Aslak Sverdrup.
“It’s not every day when the club from Norway is moving throughout football Europe, but today we are doing it. In a world where freedom of expression is under attack, it is an important and right decision.”
Brann stated that the decision was taken by the UEFA disciplinary authority and its internal appellate body was canceled.
“CAS agrees that the use of” UEFA Mafia “must be seen as a reference to UEFA as a closed group of people who perform significant control of the specific area of society – ie as a satirical and critical statement,” the club said.
“CAS agrees with Brann that this cannot be considered offensive or provocative, and therefore could not justify fines against Brann.”
Brann said UEFA was ordered to pay the club’s legal costs and next week was expected a complete judgment.
UEFA stated that it confirmed the acceptance of the CAS price for the cancellation of the fine, but disagreed with Brann’s reading of the decision.
“In this case, in any case, CAS has in no way confirmed that freedom of expression could justify that the so -called” fans “make offensive statements,” UEFA said in a statement.
“In addition, CAS confirmed that” UEFA has a legitimate regulatory interest to ensure public security and prevent disorders or incorrect behavior during the football match “.
“UEFA disciplinary authorities will continue to apply their policy to zero tolerance to inappropriate behavior to ensure that UEFA matches are not a phase of violent, racist or offensive behavior that are not suitable for sports events.”
