UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin has made some strong statements about the political situation in Europe, saying that “freedom of expression no longer exists” and that “we are all fed up with political correctness”. In an interview with Slovenian newspaper ‘Delo’, Ceferin addressed topics ranging from European politics to the new Champions League format.
During the interview, while he began on a positive note by praising the expansion of the Champions League – which he described as “perfect” – Ceferin was quick to go on the attack by criticizing European politicians for their handling of the war in Ukraine and what he sees as over-regulation and moralism on the continent.
FROM POPULIST RIGHT TO MAINSTREAM ARROGANCE
Ceferin expressed concern about the direction Europe is taking, noting that “we are losing in every way” due to over-regulation and a lack of unity. “We should open up and stop regulating the market so much. No one, not even China, should be our enemy. We preach to others how they should behave, but we have problems doing it ourselves,” he said.
The UEFA president also criticized the lack of freedom of speech in the Western world. “You can no longer say what you think. On the one hand, there are the right-wing populists with simplistic rhetoric, and on the other, mainstream politics, which addresses people from an intellectual and arrogant position,” he commented. According to Ceferin, this disconnect between politicians and the population is fueling the rise of populism.
THE IMPACT OF POLITICS ON SPORT
Ceferin also addressed how politics has influenced UEFA’s decisions, citing as an example the pressure that led to the abandonment of plans to reintroduce Russian youth teams into European competitions. “Politics generates hatred and intolerance out of self-interest, while speaking out against it,” he said. According to Ceferin, this political interference prevented children from being able to socialize through sport.
He also criticized the media and governments for attacking UEFA instead of seeking solutions. “Everyone was saying they would support the idea, but governments would not allow it. In reality, they wouldn’t let the kids interact,” he added.
SUCCESS OF THE NEW CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FORMAT
In contrast to his political critics, Ceferin was enthusiastic about the new Champions League format, which now features 36 teams in a single league phase. “I have heard only positive responses. The competition is more unpredictable than before, and the ratings are excellent,” he said. According to him, 99% of people are satisfied with the change, which has made the standings exciting until the last moment.
On the other hand, he denied rumors about the possibility of moving the Champions League final to the United States, stating that no negotiations have been held in this regard. “I would probably know if we had discussed it,” he joked.
PRAISE FOR INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALL FIGURES
In the interview, Ceferin also had words of praise for Prince William, whom he described as “the most knowledgeable football fan” among the global dignitaries he has met. However, he singled out the Emir of Qatar for his passion for the sport, noting that he often watches three football matches at the same time.
