The Declaration issued by European Union Sports Ministers on 8 February is an important and welcomed reminder of the centrality of the European Sport Model and its core values to football’s well-being.

Open competitions, sporting meritocracy and solidarity have formed the bedrock upon which European football has been built and designed over the years, enabling the game to grow and prosper, as well as fulfil its social functions.

This Declaration reaffirms the need to pursue collective efforts in ensuring the European Sport Model and its core features are afforded the necessary safeguards to continue to guide and shape efforts around football’s ongoing development.

ECA looks forward to playing its role working alongside governing bodies, recognised football stakeholders, the EU and national governments and other relevant organisations in pursuing these efforts.