Report of the President and Executive Committee Report of the Administration 2015/16

41st Ordinary UEFA Congress Helsinki, 5 April 2017 CONTENTS

I. Report of the President and Executive Committee 2 Committee Reports 23

II. Report of the UEFA Administration 45 Getty Images I. REPORT OF THE PRESIDENT AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

1 July 2015 - 10 July 2016

1 Summary

EFA and its Executive Committee process and a fair trial. After the CAS the Executive Committee considered it U have been through a challenging verdict and Mr Platini’s announcement essential to act in a calm and year requiring careful management to that he intended to step down, the pragmatic manner, so that the work ensure stability and continuity. The Executive Committee set procedures in undertaken by UEFA on behalf of committee and the organisation motion for an Extraordinary UEFA European football should not be reacted to a series of difficult events Congress in in September 2016, affected to any great extent. with fortitude and a strong desire not where a new UEFA president would be to be diverted from the core mission of elected. In the meantime, UEFA’s first UEFA held an Ordinary Congress in European football’s parent body to vice-president Ángel María Villar Llona Budapest in May 2016, after an promote, protect and nurture the assumed the presidency on an acting Extraordinary Congress in Zurich in game on this continent. basis. February 2016, with a second Extraordinary Congress scheduled for The reporting period was marked by At the same time, a significant change September 2016, in Athens. the case involving the UEFA president, took place at the helm of UEFA’s , which culminated in administration. , UEFA The European organisation’s aim him receiving a four-year suspension general secretary since 2009, was remained one of fostering dialogue, from all football-related activities from elected as the ninth FIFA president at cooperation and consultation with its the Court of Arbitration for Sport the world football body’s 55 member associations – Kosovo (CAS) in May 2016. Following an initial Extraordinary Congress in Zurich in joined the UEFA football family at the 90-day provisional suspension handed February 2016. His candidature had Budapest Congress – and the game’s down by the FIFA Ethics Committee in received the full backing of the UEFA stakeholders. The objective is three- October 2015, subsequently upheld by Executive Committee, which said upon fold – to develop and protect football, CAS following an appeal, Mr Platini his election that it looked forward to maintain high levels of openness and was suspended for eight years by the working closely with him to promote, transparency, and to safeguard values Ethics Committee in December 2015. protect and develop football around which are crucial for football’s good This suspension was reduced to six the world. In his place, the Executive health. years by the FIFA Appeal Committee in Committee appointed UEFA’s deputy February 2016. Following the final CAS general secretary and national The on-field highlight of the period verdict almost three months later, associations director Theodore under review was UEFA EURO 2016 in Mr Platini announced his intention to Theodoridis as general secretary ad , a spectacular tournament and resign as UEFA president. interim in March 2016. On assuming the first to feature 24 teams. The the role, Mr Theodoridis said he hoped Executive Committee’s decision in The Executive Committee took note for progress and solidarity in the 2008 to increase the EURO final-round of the various stages of the case, and relationship between UEFA, FIFA and field for the 2016 tournament proved called for rapid final decisions by the the rest of the football world. to be fully justified and underlined relevant bodies in the interests of UEFA’s commitment to promoting and justice and football. The committee Amid the various events that took developing national team football. supported Mr Platini’s right to a due place during the period under review,

The Executive Committee’s decision in 2008 to increase the EURO final-round field for the 2016 tournament proved to be fully justified and underlined UEFA’s commitment to promoting and developing national team football

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Alongside EURO 2016, UEFA’s other The Executive Committee has striven of far-sighted decisions, but also competitions also offered a wealth of to give momentum to UEFA’s policies through regular consultation and exciting matches, memorable goals and and visions across multiple platforms, dialogue with political, economic, outstanding individual performances. including financial fair play, the fight social and sporting stakeholders. The The European club and national team against match-fixing, and efforts to new presidential era which began competitions will continue to be eliminate racism and discrimination beyond this reporting period will seek constantly assessed and adjusted, to from football. It is noted with pride to marry past achievements with a firm ensure their longevity and popularity. that relations with the 55 member will to embrace further evolution in associations remain strong and solid, the future – with, as always, football UEFA’s wish that more women should and that the bond with European clubs and its interests taking priority. occupy senior decision-making roles in has been strengthened for the years to football was emphasised during the come. It is equally heartening to note reporting period when Florence that the European political authorities, Hardouin, chief executive of the with whom UEFA is in constant French Football Federation (FFF), dialogue, support many of UEFA’s became the first female member of visions and measures in important the Executive Committee to be elected areas. by a UEFA Congress at the assembly in Budapest. Her term of office runs The Executive Committee is fully aware until 2019. of its essential role in making sure that UEFA keeps pace with the times in European football, not only as a result

REPORT OF THE PRESIDENT AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 2015/16 3 COMPETITIONS

National team competitions he 15th UEFA European Football The final-round field was increased, preparations were made by UEFA and T Championship final round, UEFA among other things to give more its organising partner, EURO 2016 SAS, EURO 2016, took centre stage in France countries the opportunity to take part in the run-up to the tournament. The between 10 June and 10 July 2016. Ten in a major tournament, and the stadiums were constructed or reno- venues – Bordeaux, Lens, Lille, Lyon, qualifying competition bore testament vated to the highest quality standards, , Nice, Paris, Saint-Denis, to the strength of football across and the host cities and communities Saint-Etienne and Toulouse – staged Europe. The European Qualifiers were across France were ready to welcome the 51 matches required by the watched by more fans than ever hundreds of thousands of visitors from increased 24-team field. before, thanks to the new Week of across Europe and beyond. Security Football concept, which saw matches matters were a pivotal issue in the Ahead of the final tournament, the spread over six-day international light of recent distressing events, and qualifying competition produced a matchweeks. This fresh approach cooperation with the French authorities number of positive surprises, with five bolstered UEFA’s vision of enhancing turned out to be excellent. As far as countries qualifying for their first-ever the exposure, appeal and quality of spectator behaviour was concerned, EURO – Albania, Iceland, Northern European national team football. the Executive Committee’s stern Ireland, Slovakia and Wales. As for the final round itself, meticulous warning after early incidents that

4 Getty Images teams whose supporters were involved with just over 11.2 million requests Preparations will now accelerate for in disorder could face disqualification made for tickets to see the games. The UEFA EURO 2020, to be staged in 13 ultimately had a positive effect. ten fan zones in France attracted cities across the continent to celebrate around 3.6 million people to savour the championship’s 60th anniversary. The tournament proved outstanding the EURO atmosphere, and the Alongside this, the new UEFA Nations on many fronts over a memorable innovative work of more than 130 League, due to start in September month. Portugal won their first-ever broadcast partners contributed to a 2018, is drawing ever closer and EURO, overcoming France after extra cumulative live TV audience of more preparatory work is in full swing. The time in a tightly contested final at the than 6 billion viewers, with over 300 Executive Committee is confident that Stade de France, bringing the curtain million watching the final alone. There the wishes of the European national down on an unforgettable event were a record 300 million visits to associations to see national team which was a fantastic public success, UEFA’s digital platforms during the football further developed for the notable for the festive atmosphere tournament, four times more than for long term are being met. generated by fans inside and outside EURO 2012. No less than 153 million the stadiums. Over 2.4 million people visited the official tournament In women’s national team football, spectators watched the 51 matches, website, EURO2016.com, with over 444 the UEFA Women’s EURO 2017 million page views. The official EURO qualifying competition reached its app generated 10.7 million downloads closing stages, and preparations overall, while UEFA’s Facebook, Twitter remained on course for the final round and Instagram accounts grew by more in the Netherlands in July and August than 15 million people. 2017 – the first with 16 teams, giving more women players invaluable A total of 6,500 volunteers provided experience on the highest inter­ dedicated and outstanding services, national stage. In the meantime, a and the Executive Committee went on magnificent UEFA EURO in record to express its gratitude for their in February 2016 showed that outstanding work. the appeal of this burgeoning sector of the game is continuing to grow in The economic impact of EURO 2016 in an encouraging way. France was considerable, with studies reporting that an estimated 100,000 The youth competitions provided people were employed for the perfect platforms for talented youn tournament, 20,000 jobs were created players to show their potential. High- for the construction and renovation of quality final tournaments were hosted stadiums, and 25,000 full-time jobs by Greece (men’s U19), Azerbaijan were generated by the economic (men’s U17), Israel (women’s U19) and impact. The sports legacy left behind Belarus (women’s U17) – showcasing was also significant. Infrastructures in the excellent organisational skills that the host cities were given important are prominent among the European funding for development and, across national associations. Europe, UEFA’s 55 member associations will be able to improve infrastructures over the period until 2020, thanks to EURO revenue provided under the HatTrick assistance programme.

5 Club competitions EFA’s club competitions remain Meanwhile, women’s club football in FC overcome Paris Saint-Germain in the U successful in both commercial and Europe continued to make excellent final, demonstrating the competition’s sporting terms. Following consultation progress, reflecting the significant growing appeal. between UEFA and the European Club development and promotional efforts Association (ECA) and ratification by being made throughout the continent. ’s eight-year wait for a third the Executive Committee in March France was the destination of the UEFA UEFA Futsal Cup victory ended as 2015, a new distribution system was Women’s Champions League trophy, debutants Ugra Yugorsk edged out introduced for the European club as Olympique Lyonnais clinched their hosts Inter FS 4-3 in a thrilling final in competitions for the 2015–18 cycle, third title. Guadalajara, , in April 2016. All beginning from the 2015/16 season. four games at the Palacio Multiusos The new system provides substantial Monaco is the setting to herald every Guadalajara were sold out – reflecting increases in the amounts received by UEFA club competition season, and futsal’s blossoming as an exciting clubs in the UEFA Champions League players who have excelled in the public attraction. and UEFA Europa League, as well as by previous campaign receive prestigious clubs not taking part. More funds are UEFA awards. FC ’s Lionel The Executive Committee believes that also earmarked for UEFA Europa Messi was voted the 2014/15 UEFA Best UEFA’s nurturing of the national team League participants and clubs involved Player in Europe for the second time and club sectors is paying handsome in the qualifying rounds. Solidarity by a panel of European football dividends, with development and payments have also increased journalists, while 1. FFC and progress the key objectives in ensuring significantly for clubs that do not Germany forward Célia Šašić was voted that the European competitions qualify for the group stages, as well as as the 2014/15 UEFA Best Women’s continue to stride confidently into for clubs that do not qualify for either Player in Europe by a jury of 18 the future. competition at all. journalists supporting women’s football. Revenue from the 2015/16 UEFA Champions League amounted to some Georgia staged the 2015 UEFA Super €1.345bn (2014/15: €1.030bn), while Cup between the winners of the revenue from the UEFA Europa League previous season’s UEFA Champions totalled €411.1m (2014/15: €239.7m). League and UEFA Europa League. An extraordinary encounter of swing- Both competitions continued to attract ing fortunes in Tbilisi saw Barcelona huge public interest. Almost 6.6 million run out 5-4 winners over Sevilla FC fans attended UEFA Champions League after extra time. matches in 2015/16 and over 6.7 million were present at matches in the UEFA The UEFA Youth League – through Europa League, justifying the overhaul which young players gather vital of the competition image and its new inter­national experience – flourished branding. Spain provided the two following the Executive Committee’s competition winners: Real Madrid CF’s decision to make the competition UEFA Champions League triumph permanent. A new format with 64 gave them this particular silverware teams instead of 32 was introduced for for the 11th time, and Sevilla FC won 2015/16, aimed mainly at providing a their third successive UEFA Europa greater number of young players from League title. more associations with the chance to take part. The finals in Nyon in April 2016 captivated the local public, with a capacity 4,000 crowd watching Chelsea

6 REPORT OF THE PRESIDENT AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 2015/16 7 Getty Images Refereeing EFA’s refereeing activities are bear- Committee chose two referees and two UEFA’s introduction of goal-line U ing impressive fruit. In August assistant referees to serve only as technology (GLT) took place during the 2015, 105 referees came to Nyon for fourth officials and reserve assistant review period. In January 2016, the their annual summer gathering, while referees. A total of 112 match officials Executive Committee approved the use in February 2016, Cyprus hosted the tra- attended a preparatory workshop at of GLT for EURO 2016, as well as for the ditional advanced and introductory the EURO referees’ base at Enghien-les- 2016/17 UEFA Champions League, from winter courses for experienced referees Bains, near Paris, in April 2016, and 94 the play-offs onwards. At its March and newcomers to the international match officials from 21 national 2016 meeting, the committee then list. The course agendas include fitness associations returned to France in early decided that GLT would already be tests, video analysis of various incidents June for the tournament itself. used at the 2015/16 UEFA Champions and decisions, technical and instruc- League and UEFA Europa League finals. tional sessions, and invaluable feedback UEFA visited all 24 teams before the The system focuses on the goal line, exchanges between referees and the EURO to explain exactly how the Laws enabling additional assistant referees UEFA Referees Committee. of the Game would be interpreted in to monitor penalty-area activity and France. This was particularly important support the referee in making The role played by assistant referees given that the International Football decisions. and additional assistant referees (AARs) Association Board (IFAB) had decided cannot be emphasised enough nowa- on changes to the laws which would be UEFA’s Centre of Refereeing Excellence days. Cyprus was also the setting in applied for the first time at the EURO. (CORE) continues to effectively prepare January 2016 for a specialist assistant Another innovation saw match analysts young male and female referees for referee workshop, and 40 AARs – coaches with UEFA A licences – careers at the highest level. The quality attended a course specifically designed deployed to give the EURO referees of this dedicated work was seen at for them in Nyon in August 2015. invaluable preparatory information on EURO 2016, when Polish referee the teams, their players and tactics. Szymon Marciniak became the first Eighteen refereeing teams were CORE graduate to be chosen as a EURO selected for EURO 2016 – each team Referee performances at the EURO match official. comprising six match officials: one main gave the Executive Committee great referee, two additional assistant cause for satisfaction, and praise was The Executive Committee welcomes the referees, and two assistant referees, also due to the players and coaches for high quality of European refereeing, with a third assistant referee named as their general conduct, resulting in and will do its utmost to provide match a reserve for each team, and remaining fewer cases of dissent and ’mobbing’ of officials and the UEFA Referees on standby until the tournament kicked referees by players disputing decisions. Committee with support and resources off. Additionally, the Referees to maintain these standards.

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The Executive Committee analyses, discusses and decides on matters across European football in its entirety, and intial deliberations on many of the topics in question take place within the Professional Football Strategy Council (PFSC), comprising the UEFA president and four UEFA vice-presidents, as well as representatives from the European Club Association (ECA), the European Professional Football Leagues (EPFL) and the professional players’ union FIFPro Division Europe.

Financial fair play uropean football’s financial health E is showing encouraging improve- ments, thanks in no small part to UEFA’s financial fair play measures, which were introduced with the Executive Committee’s approval in 2009. The seventh club licensing benchmarking report, issued in October 2015, highlighted the positive turnaround – bottom-line losses cut dramatically, club balance sheets strengthened, club net debts reduced, revenue growth continuing, and record operating profits of €805m generated in 2014. The report empha- sised clubs’ willingness to adopt more sustainable plans for the future, thereby curbing the financial excesses that necessitated the introduction of financial fair play measures in the first place. European club football on a more has been made in addressing problems These measures are backed in full by stable footing, and the Executive such as financial transparency, the European football family and Committee is cautiously optimistic that inadequate stadiums, overdue payables Europe’s political authorities. A new efforts to safeguard European club and lack of youth investment. Club Club Financial Control Body (CFCB) football’s stability and create sound licensing has raised the level of chairman was appointed in the review bases are having a real effect. professionalism in club management period – former Belgian prime minister and supports the financial stability of Yves Leterme – and the body remains a The positive impact of club licensing clubs and the integrity of competitions. solid and reliable monitor of the clubs’ was underlined in a report published It is clear to the Executive Committee financial management, taking action in January 2016, looking back at the that the system provides the perfect when it is considered appropriate to system over the ten years since its platform for the future growth and do so. Financial fair play has put introduction. Considerable progress prosperity of European club football.

REPORT OF THE PRESIDENT AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 2015/16 9 Integrity EFA works closely with the the public more aware of the UEFA’s integrity education drive U European football family and key seriousness of match-fixing and of includes regular presentations to stakeholders in the fight against what it ultimately means for football. young players to alert them to the match-fixing, which constitutes a gen- dangers of match-fixing. Moreover, uine danger to the integrity of football. A comprehensive integrity programme UEFA’s betting fraud detection system was implemented for EURO 2016, with monitors betting patterns at around The UEFA match-fixing working group no concerns arising with regard to any 32,000 European matches every year, met in autumn 2015, and again issued of the 51 matches in France. The and has proved its value in detecting a call for the incorporation of criminal programme comprised education, potential match-fixing situations. provisions against sporting fraud in monitoring and cooperation with key Europe’s legal frameworks. The group stakeholders, with particular emphasis The Executive Committee fully includes UEFA integrity officials, state on preventing any issues related to endorses UEFA’s zero-tolerance policy and national football association match-fixing and betting irregularities. towards match-fixing, which sees prosecutors, police, crime prevention The 24 squads and 18 referee teams anyone found guilty of such offences agents and betting and gambling were also given presentations on liable to receive severe penalties. experts from across Europe. There was match-fixing before the event. also agreement on the need to make

Safety and security EFA issued a new safety and secu- UEFA is drawing up development and Blanket security measures were put in U rity strategy for 2015–19 during support programmes for all those place for EURO 2016, in light of the the period under review. The strategy involved in stadium security, with the tragic events that occurred, in Paris sees UEFA take a leadership role in view that stadium managers, safety and Brussels in particular, ahead of the European football stadium and secu- officers and police who work along- tournament. The French hosts pledged rity matters, promoting and request- side each other on a regular basis to deliver a high-quality EURO, and ing integrated partnerships with should be trained together. the target was to stay totally focused public authorities at national and local on that, whatever the circumstances of level, promoting high-quality stadium UEFA has reiterated its call for the moment. Excellent cooperation infrastructures and top-level stadium concerted efforts by those working in with the French authorities and private security management; and promoting, football, governments, police and security companies helped fulfil those developing and contributing to pan- public authorities to reduce violence in expectations at the tournament. European, national and local initiatives and around stadiums. In particular, as that encourage a safe, secure and part of its strategy UEFA will seek to welcoming environment at football have troublemakers excluded from matches. stadiums. It is encouraging wide- ranging measures that prevent known UEFA also pledges to give constant high-risk supporters from travelling help to national football associations abroad. The Executive Committee calls to improve safety and security at on the whole football family to remain European football stadiums, and to vigilant and act firmly against anyone assist them in influencing governments whose conduct has a negative effect at national and local level. on the game.

10 REPORT OF THE PRESIDENT AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 2015/16 11 Getty Images Anti-doping and medical developments EFA’s ever-evolving anti-doping doctor is an essential one in modern- U activities are firmly backed by the day football, a development fully Executive Committee, and 2015/16 saw acknowledged by UEFA. Minimum UEFA introduce its strongest-ever anti- medical requirements are in place for doping programme. This included the players, referees and team officials at introduction, with the committee’s UEFA competition matches; players approval, of the World Anti-Doping undertake medical screening before Agency (WADA) athlete biological participating in UEFA competitions; passport to enhance detection of the UEFA Elite Club Injury Study steroid use; strengthened rules on provides clubs, associations and the team and player whereabouts; and a scientific community with important new sample storage programme data on the treatment and prevention enabling future testing, meaning that of injuries; and the UEFA Football players can be punished if any new Doctor Education Programme spreads analysis of a stored sample proves an medical knowledge among football anti-doping rule violation. doctors and medical experts through- out Europe. UEFA’s ambitious EURO 2016 testing programme, the largest conducted at a EURO, was an unequivocal success. In March 2016, the 24 team doctors signed a charter pledging their total backing of UEFA’s anti-doping strategy, and no positive tests were recorded on 2,242 samples – including urine, serum and blood samples – collected in and out of competition from January 2016 onwards. UEFA worked closely with the national anti-doping organisations (NADOs) of the countries represented at the EURO to coordinate and implement the programme, which was seen as a model of cooperation between a sporting organisation and NADOs at continental level, in terms of gathering intelligence and acting as an important deterrent to doping.

UEFA’s comprehensive anti-doping education programme continued to have a key impact in warning young players of the dangers of doping. UEFA is determined to remain at the fore- front of efforts to keep football free of drug-taking, by remaining ever- vigilant and free of complacency. The role of medicine and the team

12 UEFA Social responsibility ue to its popularity, football has accessible to wheelchair users and money to allocate to fair play or D an important role to play in pro- audio-descriptive commentaries of respect-themed projects in their moting social development, while act- matches in French helping the partially respective countries, rather than ing as a catalyst for sustainability and sighted and blind. In addition, a no- awarding them with places in the change. The Executive Committee con- smoking policy was operated across UEFA Europa League. tinued to support UEFA’s social respon- the internal and external areas of the sibility activities, which are rooted in ten EURO stadiums. The Captains of Change programme, five-year strategic partnerships. The which promotes diversity and inclusion current partnerships cycle runs from EURO 2016’s approach to social respon- in the management of the game, 2012 to 2017, with activities ongoing in sibility and sustainability earned the demonstrates UEFA’s commitment to areas such as diversity, social inclusion, tournament ISO 20121 certification for influencing the culture of football the environment, health, peace and its operations in France, and left a host organisations, and to progressively reconciliation, solidarity and fan of positive legacies. Both UEFA and its opening them to a wider range of dialogue. organisational partner, EURO 2016 people of different origins and SAS, took the importance of backgrounds. As its name suggests, UEFA has strong social responsibility sustainability into account at every the Football for all Abilities partnerships that use football as a step of planning and implementation. programme promotes integration means to contribute to society as a A number of concrete measures were through football, and aims to increase whole. The Executive Committee was put in place in the fields of public opportunities for all footballers at also pleased to note UEFA’s readiness transport and mobility, waste grassroots level. UEFA also gave crucial to help member associations manage management, energy and water support once more to the International the social, environmental and optimisation, accessibility and the Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) economic impact of European football. fight against racism and physical rehabilitation programme for discrimination. landmine victims and other people EURO 2016 was a great opportunity with disabilities in Afghanistan, for UEFA’s social responsibility visions The Executive Committee fully donating €100,000 to the organisation to make a huge impact. By way of an endorses UEFA’s zero tolerance of all for the ninth consecutive year. example, the official EURO Respect forms of racism, intolerance and campaign, #CelebrateFootball, was an discrimination in football. At UEFA It goes without saying that the outstanding celebration of all that Champions League, UEFA Europa Executive Committee welcomes UEFA’s makes football so popular and League and EURO 2016 qualifying social responsibility and sustainability attractive. It was only appropriate, matches in October 2015, the work, given the significant social given the fantastic atmosphere European football family confirmed its impact and influence that it has in generated and the overall conduct opposition to these phenomena, and making use of football’s universal shown by the fans, that UEFA went UEFA’s disciplinary authorities appeal. public in expressing its thanks to them continue to punish acts of racism and for their behaviour. discrimination in line with the organisation’s zero-tolerance stance. Another example saw the EURO fully New UEFA Respect Fair Play criteria highlight UEFA’s drive to help improve came into effect for 2015/16, earning access to football, with venues made the top-ranked associations prize

UEFA’s disciplinary authorities continue to punish acts of racism and discrimination in line with the organisation’s zero-tolerance stance

REPORT OF THE PRESIDENT AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 2015/16 13 Development programmes EFA’s overall mission stresses that UEFA’s determination that more technical Study Group Scheme and the U football must never stand still in women should be involved in senior medical UEFA Football Doctor its development and must always stay positions within football. A workshop Education Programme. In addition, in tune with with the times. The in May 2016 brought female members UEFA is forging strong bonds with the Executive Committee adheres to this of the football family to Nyon to academic community through a series core policy, which focuses on providing acquire the tools for leadership and of education courses for the football assistance and guidance to the decision-making positions. An family, again with European football’s national associations in all sectors of innovative one-year mentoring scheme long-term progress at heart. These the game. is designed to motivate women to include the Executive Master in continue on the path towards European Sport Governance (MESGO), The HatTrick programme provides prominent leadership roles in football the UEFA Certificate in Football UEFA’s member associations with bodies. Management (CFM), the Football Law invaluable assistance in contributing to Programme (UEFA FLP) and UEFA the general improvement of standards UEFA’s mission, backed by the Executive Master for International across Europe. HatTrick help has Executive Committee, to promote and Players (MIP). increased – more funds (€600m in develop women’s football in Europe is total) are being given to the 55 flourishing across the continent, based associations for the period from 2016 on two key elements – the strength of to 2020, to support their activities and the European competitions, and fund long-term investment. The funds support for association projects by help each country in various ways: they women’s football development can build new administrative offices ambassadors – talented players and and training centres for their national other personalities who promote squads, construct or renovate stadiums UEFA’s values and act as role models. and installations to increase spectator During 2015/16, women’s football comfort, or finance grassroots luminaries Camille Abily, Verónica activities, coaching and referee Boquete, Laura Georges and Lotta programmes and club licensing work. Schelin were joined as ambassadors by two other charismatic women’s Associations also benefit from annual football personalities – Steph solidarity funding which allows them Houghton and Nadine Kessler – to to take part in UEFA youth, women’s reinforce the development drive. With and amateur competitions. HatTrick impressive projects thriving in many provides funds for the UEFA Women’s European associations, confidence is Football Development Programme, as high that women players, referees, well as for numerous knowledge- helpers and volunteers will constantly sharing and educational programmes, increase in number. which enable associations, their staff and other members of their domestic European football continues to benefit football families to further improve from cooperation and solidarity management skills and learn more between UEFA and its member about the management of the game, associations in numerous areas. with the overall well-being of Expertise has been widely enhanced European football in mind. thanks to a broad catalogue of programmes in which associations The Women in Football Leadership exchange knowledge, share advice and Programme continues to underline disseminate information, such as the

14 UEFA

UEFA Foundation for Children he UEFA Foundation for Children, under way around the world, and the beyond, and the foundation was able T launched in April 2015, has enjoyed foundation has been rightly praised to celebrate its first honour – the an extremely fruitful first full year of for its commitment to bringing joy to Foundation of the Year prize at the activity and is fulfilling its mission to children’s lives. The Executive 2015 Peace and Sport Awards – for the use football as a force for good in Committee emphasised its backing in quality and breadth of its work in society, and support children and September 2015 with a €2m donation fulfilling another key UEFA vision. defend their fundamental rights. to the foundation for initiatives to A wealth of activities and projects are help child migrants in Europe and

REPORT OF THE PRESIDENT AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 2015/16 15 Stakeholder relations EFA is one of six continental foot- mutual feedback and information to U ball confederations and contrib- be shared at the highest decision- utes fully to the work undertaken making levels. UEFA also continues to by the world football body, FIFA. UEFA pursue dialogue and consultation with elects three FIFA vice-presidents (one supporter groups, stressing its ongoing of whom is proposed by the four commitment to working in partnership British associations – England, with fans – the lifeblood of football – Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales) for the overall benefit of the game. and six members of FIFA’s new execu- tive body, the FIFA Council, including To the Executive Committee’s great at least one woman. The UEFA presi- satisfaction, relations between UEFA dent is an ex officio FIFA and the European Union remain vice-president. positive, with much common ground evident and a joint commitment to During the 2015/16 period, the working together to strengthen Executive Committee took note of football on and off the field – decisions of the FIFA Ethics Committee anchored in the cooperation and Appeal Committee in the case of agreement signed in the autumn UEFA president Michel Platini, and of 2014. The EU has recognised that called for all relevant bodies to reach UEFA’s financial fair play measures rapid verdicts in the matter as it are key to achieving financial stability proceeded. In addition, the committee within football and supports other emphasised its support for UEFA major UEFA initiatives, such as the general secretary Gianni Infantino’s campaigns against match-fixing, ultimately successful candidature for racism and discrimination, and the the FIFA presidency, pledging at the promotion of grassroots football. same time to contribute to building UEFA’s first Grassroots Week in a strong FIFA. UEFA also took part in September 2015 took place alongside the deliberations of the FIFA Reform the first European Week of Sport, Committee. Europe’s national a European Commission initiative associations were fully involved in backing physical activity and sport the consultation process with UEFA, in Europe. and were updateed on developments before any proposals were submitted to FIFA.

UEFA’s recognition of the clubs’ contributions to the European game was strengthened during the review period, not only by the introduction of a new financial distribution system (see elsewhere in this report), but also with the participation of two non- voting representatives of the European Club Association (ECA) in Executive Committee meetings. This facilitated dialogue and enabled important

16 ORDINARY AND OTHER MEETINGS

he Executive Committee held seven there should be a European candidate and association events. In turn, the T meetings during the 2015/16 for the FIFA presidency, with support UEFA administration keeps committee period. Consequently, the committee given to the candidature of UEFA members constantly in touch with was in a position to give close atten- general secretary Gianni Infantino. In association matters. Every member is tion to and take sound decisions on addition, the UEFA Emergency Panel responsible for following specific European football topics and issues. met in Paris on 9 June 2016, deciding associations, and Executive Committee that Bosnia and Herzegovina and members chair all of UEFA’s standing The committee also held an should not play against new committees. emergency meeting and met with UEFA member Kosovo for security UEFA’s member associations in Nyon The following list provides a reasons. As a result, Kosovo were on 15 October 2015, with discussions comprehensive overview of the items assigned to Group I in the European centring on the case involving UEFA dealt with and decisions taken by the Qualifiers for the 2018 FIFA World Cup, president Michel Platini. Two UEFA Executive Committee at its and Gibraltar were assigned to conference-call meetings took place meetings during the reporting period. Group H. on 8 October and 26 October 2015 respectively. The first centred on the The Executive Committee stays in case of Michel Platini, and the second regular contact with UEFA’s member brought unanimous agreement that associations, by way of UEFA meetings

Meeting summaries

17 September 2015, St Julian’s, Malta • Approval of the composition of the UEFA Club Competitions Committee for the 2015–19 period. • Approval of a €2m donation to the UEFA • Approval of amendments to the 2013–15 Foundation for Children to help child migrants in Regulations of the UEFA European Qualifying Europe and beyond. Competition for the 7th FIFA Women’s World Cup • Appointment of former Belgian prime minister – specifically for European play-off matches for Yves Leterme as Club Financial Control Body chief the 2016 Women’s Olympic Football Tournament. investigator. • Decision to hold an Extraordinary UEFA Congress • Appointment of UEFA Executive Committee in Zurich on 25 February 2016. A new date for an member František Laurinec as special Ordinary UEFA Congress, originally scheduled to representative for football in Crimea. take place in Budapest on 23 March 2016, would be decided at the committee’s meeting in • Approval of the submission of the Football December 2015. Federation of Kosovo’s request for UEFA membership to the Ordinary UEFA Congress • Agreement that the Ordinary UEFA Congress in 2016. should take place before UEFA EURO 2016.

11 December 2015, Nyon, • Approval of the annual reports of the UEFA president and Executive Committee and the UEFA • Decision to hold the 40th Ordinary UEFA administration, to be presented to the Congress in Budapest on 3 May 2016. Extraordinary UEFA Congress in Zurich.

• Approval of the draft programme and draft • Approval of UEFA’s consolidated and stand- agenda for the Extraordinary UEFA Congress alone financial statements for 2014/15, as well as in Zurich. the budget for 2016/17, to be presented to the UEFA Congress for final approval.

REPORT OF THE PRESIDENT AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 2015/16 17 • Update on preparations for UEFA EURO 2016, • Decision that Inter FS would host the 2016 UEFA and reaffirmation of UEFA’s commitment to place Futsal Cup finals in Guadalajara (Spain). security at the centre of the event. • Approval in principle of the introduction of goal- • Approval of an increase in the amount distrib- line technology for EURO 2016 and the UEFA club uted to the teams participating in EURO 2016. competitions, starting in 2016/17. The 24 teams would share a total of €301m (EURO • Note taken of the Court of Arbitration (CAS) 2012: €196m; EURO 2008: €184m). decision to uphold the provisional 90-day • Approval of a request for an increased UEFA suspension of UEFA president Michel Platini; contribution of up to €3m towards security costs request for a swift disciplinary process by the for the EURO 2016 fan zones. relevant FIFA bodies on the merits of the case; support for Michel Platini’s right to a due process, • Approval of a request to increase EURO 2016 fair trial and the opportunity to clear his name. participating associations’ internal ticket quotas to a maximum of 2,000, for group matches only.

21 January 2016, Nyon, Switzerland • Final approval of the use of goal-line technology at EURO 2016 in France, as well as in the 2016/17 • Decision to unanimously support the UEFA Champions League, from the play-offs candidature of Gianni Infantino in the FIFA onwards. presidential election. • Decision to assess the feasibility of implementing • Decision not to schedule any UEFA presidential goal-line technology in the UEFA Europa League, election until the sports justice appeals bodies had from the group stage onwards, starting in 2017/18. taken a decision regarding Michel Platini’s • Amendment to Article 21.05 of the suspension. Regulations of the UEFA European Football • Agreement to propose an amendment to the Championship 2014–16, allowing qualified teams UEFA Statutes to the Extraordinary UEFA Congress to play two friendly matches against other in Zurich, whereby at least one female Executive participating teams, as opposed to the one Committee member would be elected for a four- friendly match initially foreseen in the regulations, year term by the UEFA Congress and no longer on condition that they were not in the same final appointed by the Executive Committee itself; the tournament group. first such election would be held at the Ordinary UEFA Congress in Budapest on 3 May 2016.

4 March 2016, Nyon, Switzerland • Decision to deploy goal-line technology at the 2015/16 UEFA Champions League and UEFA Eu- • Appointment of Theodore Theodoridis as UEFA ropa League finals. general secretary ad interim, replacing Gianni • Approval of the regulations of the following Infantino following his election as FIFA president. competitions: 2016/17 UEFA Champions League, • Approval of the programme and agenda for 2016/17 UEFA Europa League, 2017 UEFA Super the 40th Ordinary UEFA Congress in Budapest on Cup, 2016/17 UEFA Women’s Champions League, 3 May 2016. 2016/17 UEFA Futsal Cup, 2016/17 UEFA Youth League. • Decision not to schedule any UEFA presidential elections until the Court of Arbitration for Sport • Approval of an updated coefficient ranking (CAS) had ruled on Michel Platini’s appeal against system for the 2015–17 UEFA European Women’s his suspension. Championship.

18 2 May 2016, Budapest, Hungary substitution in extra time at the final tournaments of the following competitions: UEFA European • Update on preparations for EURO 2016; Under-19 Championships 2016 (Germany) and 2017 expression of confidence in measures put in place (Georgia), UEFA European Women’s Under-19 to stage a safe and festive tournament for all Championships 2016 (Slovakia) and 2017 (Northern involved. Ireland), UEFA European Under-21 Championship 2017 (Poland). • Amendment of the Regulations of the UEFA European Football Championship 2014–16, to • Approval of the following regulations: 2016 reflect the recent decision to use goal-line UEFA Anti-Doping Regulations, 2016 UEFA technology in the final tournament. Disciplinary Regulations.

• Reappointment of UEFA Club Financial Control • Approval of the regulations of the following Body members for the 2016–20 period. competitions: 2016/17 UEFA European Under-17 Championship, 2016/17 UEFA European Under-19 • Renewal of the mandates of UEFA refereeing Championship, 2016/17 UEFA European Women’s officers , Marc Batta and Hugh Under-17 Championship, 2016/17 UEFA European Dallas until summer 2020. Women’s Under-19 Championship, 2017–18 • Agreement to allow the testing of a fourth European Futsal Championship.

18 May 2016, , Switzerland • Integration of clubs from Kosovo in the 2016/17 UEFA competitions: decision that the domestic • Decision to schedule an Extraordinary UEFA champion and cup winners could be admitted to Congress for 14 September 2016 in Athens, to the UEFA Champions League and UEFA Europa elect a new UEFA president and a European League first qualifying rounds respectively, female member of the FIFA Council. provided they met UEFA licensing criteria.

• Approval of the agenda for the Extraordinary • Creation of a task force to discuss the UEFA Congress in Athens. integration of the Gibraltar and Kosovo national teams in the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers • Decision that the 41st Ordinary UEFA Congress following their admission as FIFA member would take place in Helsinki on Wednesday 5 associations. April 2017.

9 July 2016, Paris, France remuneration of the UEFA senior management, including the UEFA president, Executive • EURO 2016 reviewed, competitiveness of the Committee members and the UEFA general tournament in its new 24-team format praised, secretary. The Compensation Committee would and thanks extended to all those involved in the comprise the Finance Committee chairman, a successful organisation and running of the com- member of the Governance and Compliance petition, in particular the French host cities and Committee and an independent expert with authorities, and the 6,500 volunteers. extensive professional experience in compensation and governance matters. • Approval of the creation of a Compensation Committee to oversee matters linked to the

REPORT OF THE PRESIDENT AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 2015/16 19 EXTRAORDINARY UEFA CONGRESS IN ZURICH

he 11th Extraordinary UEFA represented on the committee. The The Extraordinary Congress in Zurich T Congress took place at the new statutes came into force on took place on the day before the Swissôtel in the Swiss city of Zurich on 1 March 2016, and the first such Extraordinary FIFA Congress in the 25 February 2016. election was to be held at the 40th same city, which would include the Ordinary UEFA Congress in Budapest election of the new FIFA president. Amendments to the UEFA Statutes on 3 May 2016. The UEFA Congress heard addresses by were approved whereby the female all of the candidates for the FIFA member of the UEFA Executive Approval was forthcoming for the presidency, and was presented with Committee would now be elected by 2014/15 financial report and the reforms that were to be proposed to the UEFA Congress, as opposed to 2016/17 budget. The Report of the the FIFA Congress. being appointed by the UEFA UEFA President and Executive Executive Committee. It would also be Committee for 2014/15 and the Report possible for that female member to of the UEFA Administration for the come from a country already same period were also both approved.

ORDINARY UEFA CONGRESS IN BUDAPEST

he 40th Ordinary UEFA Congress Florence Hardouin (France) was elected Six European football personalities T was held at the HUNGEXPO in the as the female member of the UEFA received UEFA Orders of Merit for Hungarian capital, Budapest, on 3 May Executive Committee for the 2016–19 services to football and dedication for 2016. period, receiving 33 votes against the the good of the game at a ceremony 21 received by Karen Espelund held in conjunction with the Budapest The Football Federation of Kosovo (Norway). Congress: Sir (England, (FFK) was admitted as the 55th UEFA Order of Merit in Diamond), Lars-Åke member association with immediate The Budapest Congress ratified the Lagrell (Sweden, Diamond), Károly effect. A simple majority was required lists of members of the UEFA Organs Palotai (Hungary, Diamond), Zorislav for the FFK to become a member, and for the Administration of Justice and Srebrić (Croatia, Diamond), Sir Trevor it received 28 votes in favour, with 24 the UEFA Governance and Compliance Brooking (England, Ruby) and Father votes against and two invalid votes Committee for the 2015–19 period, as Hilary Tagliaferro (Malta, Ruby). cast. appointed by the UEFA Executive Committee on 29 June 2015.

20 UEFA

UEFA Executive Committee (May 2016)

President Michel Platini (France), president since 2007, Members Sándor Csányi (Hungary), elected in 2015 Executive Committee member since 2002 David Gill (England), 2013 (suspended from 8 October 2015) Peter Gilliéron (Switzerland), 2011 First Vice-President Ángel María Villar Llona (Spain), Fernando Gomes (Portugal), 2015 vice-president since 2000, Allan Hansen (Denmark), 2009 Executive Committee member since 1992 Florence Hardouin (France), 2016 Second Vice-President Marios N. Lefkaritis (Cyprus), vice-president since František Laurinec (Slovakia), 2009 2007, Executive Committee member since 1996 Avraham Luzon (Israel), 2009 Borislav Mihaylov (Bulgaria), 2011 Third Vice-President Giancarlo Abete (Italy) vice-president since 2011, (Germany), 2013 Executive Committee member since 2009 Davor Šuker (Croatia), 2015 Fourth Vice-President Grigoriy Surkis (Ukraine), vice-president since 2013, Executive Committee member since 2004 European Members of the FIFA Council Fifth Vice-President Michael van Praag (Netherlands), Vice-Presidents Michel Platini (France) vice-president since 2015, (suspended from 8 October 2015) Executive Committee member since 2009 Ángel María Villar Llona (Spain) David Gill (England) Members Michel D’Hooghe (Belgium) Şenes Erzik (Turkey) Marios N. Lefkaritis (Cyprus) Vitaly Mutko (Russia) Wolfgang Niersbach (Germany)

REPORT OF THE PRESIDENT AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 2015/16 21 Getty Images

22 Committee reports

1 July 2015 - 10 July 2016

REPORT OF THE PRESIDENT AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 2015/16 23 National Associations Committee

fter reviewing its work A programme, the committee was updated on UEFA and FIFA matters. The proceedings of the FIFA Ethics Committee regarding the FIFA and UEFA presidents were explained, and the committee was given the latest information and timeline regarding the upcoming UEFA and FIFA congresses.

The committee also dealt with the outcomes of the 2015 strategy meeting of UEFA’s Top Executive Programme (TEP) in Malta. The discussions in this meeting of all UEFA member associa- tions had focused in particular on UEFA governance issues and FIFA- related issues. The future of the UEFA club competitions had also been UEFA discussed. The committee provided feedback and directions regarding the follow-up.

In addition to the above-mentioned matters, the committee was given updates on national association issues, including changes in top management as well as on the status of Kosovo’s application for UEFA membership and Composition of the committee on 30 June 2016 of the football development situation in Crimea. Chairman Marios N. Lefkaritis (Cyprus) Deputy Chairman Fernando Gomes (Portugal) Meeting: 25 November 2015 1st Vice-Chairman Gregory Dyke (England) 2nd Vice-Chairman Armand Duka (Albania) 3rd Vice-Chairman Andrii Pavelko (Ukraine) Members Ofer Eini (Israel) Virgar Hvidbro (Faroe Islands) Yerlan Kozhagapanov (Kazakhstan) Patrick Nelson (Northern Ireland) Hugo Quaderer (Liechtenstein) Charles Robba (Gibraltar) Domenti Sichinava (Georgia) Alexey Sorokin (Russia) Radu Visan (Romania) Servet Yardimci (Turkey) Dimitar Zisovski (FYR Macedonia) Co-opted Members Noël Le Graët (France) Tomislav Karadžić (Serbia)

The following member left the committee during the reporting period: Kjetil P. Siem (Norway)

24 Finance Committee

he Finance Committee held regular Committee. This budget included the assets were given to the committee, as T meetings during the period under European Under-21 Championship well as an overview of its property review to fulfil its permanent duty to final round in Poland, with an increase portfolio and counterparty risk advise and support the Executive in the distribution to the participating management. The organisation Committee on all financial matters for associations. continued to operate in a difficult the benefit of European football. environment, with interest rates close The external auditors performed their to zero for short-term money market The financial performance of UEFA is annual audit of UEFA and UEFA Events investments. Nevertheless, the monitored by comparing the budget SA related to the 2015/16 financial committee supported UEFA’s with forecasts and actuals. These statements, and UEFA’s internal investment strategy with a continued analyses were presented at each control system was also examined. The prudent approach. meeting, with the monitoring of EURO auditors’ report and recommendations 2016 performance clearly being the were presented to and discussed by Meetings: 17 September and 26 November 2015; 21 January and 20 April 2016 main focus during the period under the committee. More information and review. The committee also reviewed details on finances can be found in the budget for 2016/17 and submitted UEFA’s financial report for 2015/16. its recommendations to the Executive Regular updates on UEFA’s financial UEFA

Composition of the committee on 30 June 2016

Chairman Marios N. Lefkaritis (Cyprus) Members Giancarlo Abete (Italy) David Gill (England) Allan Hansen (Denmark) Wolfgang Niersbach (Germany)

REPORT OF THE PRESIDENT AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 2015/16 25 Referees Committee

his year was the build-up to EURO match preparation and recovery consistently provided at least half of T 2016. The 18 main referees were programme, which was not only Europe’s new FIFA referees since 2012, named following the first half of the physical, but also included tactical referees who are better trained, better season and their assistant referees and preparation by two UEFA licensed informed and fitter than ever before. additional assistant referees were coaches and performance debriefs by CORE alumni have now started to named after mid-season courses for UEFA’s refereeing officers. reach UEFA’s elite referee category, both referees and assistant referees. and one former CORE referee was A final preparatory course, with fitness The committee gave its support to even selected for EURO 2016. CORE has test, was held in April. the implementation of goal-line also involved women in six courses to technology in UEFA competitions, date, with 31 female referees and 48 Once the final list had been issued, the noting that such ’fact-based’ female assistant referees having refereeing officers and committee technology would only aid and not participated. The CORE method has worked on ensuring the match officials disrupt the referee, while improving even extended beyond Europe, match were prepared for the tournament in the efficiency of additional assistant officials from 15 non-UEFA countries the best possible way. This included referees, who would now be able to having taken part in CORE courses making sure they were in top physical concentrate exclusively on the penalty in Nyon. shape and informed on the tactics of area and not the goal line. all participating teams. Both these Meetings: 8 December 2015 and 6 June 2016 aspects were maintained or expanded The Centre of Refereeing Excellence on during the tournament through a (CORE) entered its sixth year and has

Composition of the committee on 30 June 2016

Chairman Ángel María Villar Llona (Spain) Deputy Chairwoman Karen Espelund (Norway)

Chief Refereeing Officer Pierluigi Collina (Italy) Refereeing Officers Marc Batta (France) (Scotland) Members Dagmar Damková (Czech Republic) David R. Elleray (England) Herbert Fandel (Germany) Bo Karlsson (Sweden) Nikolay Levnikov (Russia) Vladimir Sajn (Slovenia) Jaap Uilenberg (Netherlands) Kyros Vassaras (Greece)

26 Getty Images National Team Competitions Committee

he National Team Competitions with regular reports and updates from discussed were the coefficient rankings T Committee dealt with several the UEFA administration. Ahead of the to be used for the first edition of the matters during the 2015/16 season, the tournament, it approved two additions UEFA Nations League and the host city two main topics having been the final to the competition regulations (goal- pairing principles to be applied for preparations for EURO 2016 and the line technology and concussions), EURO 2020. consolidation of the regulatory aspects which were subsequently validated by for the 2018–22 cycle, which will the UEFA Executive Committee. Looking further ahead, the committee include the UEFA Nations League and recommended that the hosting of EURO 2020. Coordination between FIFA and UEFA EURO 2024 follow the traditional was another key point during the model of one or joint host countries The first cycle of European Qualifiers reporting period, since the 2018 World and the bidding process be modelled came to an end in November 2015, and Cup qualifiers would be organised for on that applied for EURO 2016. in a review of this first centralised edi- the first time in a joint venture tion, the committee highlighted its between the two organisations, with As regards the European Under-21 overall success, both in terms of UEFA responsible for the commercial Championship, the 2015 final round in operational implementation and on and football operations of the the Czech Republic was a great the sporting side, the increase in the European Qualifiers and FIFA sporting and popular success, and the number of EURO 2016 places at stake remaining the competition organiser committee monitored progress with having produced a more intense and thus the ultimate decision-maker. regard to the 2017 final round in sporting contest to determine the Poland, which will be the first to 23 teams which would join France. The committee dedicated a large part involve 12 teams. of its meetings to the new competition For EURO 2016 itself, the committee structure for the 2018–22 cycle. Among Meetings: 10 November 2015 and 29 April 2016 monitored organisational progress the regulatory and technical aspects

Composition of the committee on 30 June 2016

Chairman Wolfgang Niersbach (Germany) Deputy Chairman Sándor Csányi (Hungary)

1st Vice-Chairman Geir Thorsteinsson (Iceland) 2nd Vice-Chairman Mahmut Özgener (Turkey) 3rd Vice-Chairman Miroslav Pelta (Czech Republic) Members Jesper Møller Christensen (Denmark) Ludovic Debru (France) John Delaney (Republic of Ireland) Martin Glenn (England) Rotem Kamer (Israel) Alfred Ludwig (Austria) Alan McRae (Scotland) Alex Miescher (Switzerland) Maciej Sawicki (Poland) Håkan Sjöstrand (Sweden) Michele Uva (Italy) Bert van Oostveen (Netherlands) Bjorn Vassallo (Malta) Damir Vrbanović (Croatia)

The following member left the committee during the reporting period: Yngve Hallén (Norway).

COMMITTEE REPORTS 2015/16 27 Sportsfile Club Competitions Committee

he UEFA club competitions had a The committee also agreed changes to play regulations, including the newly Tvery successful season, starting with the 2016/17 regulations and fully concluded settlement agreements with a historic Super Cup match in Tbilisi, in supported the introduction of goal-line various clubs, as well as the distribution front of a record crowd of more than technology for the 2016/17 UEFA of withheld amounts to clubs. 50,000, and culminating with two great Champions League, recommending its finals in Basel and Milan. use for the first time ever in an official Finally, venues were proposed for the UEFA match at the UEFA Europa League 2017 UEFA Europa League and UEFA The main focus of the committee was final in Basel. Champions League finals and the UEFA the subject of format developments for Super Cup, while the committee fully the next competition cycle, 2018–21. The committee discussed matters supported the idea of introducing a Based on competition analyses and related to the 2016/17 international formal bidding procedure for the club market research, various sporting and match calendar and the potential for competition finals from 2019 onwards. commercial challenges were identified clashes in terms of player release for and the committee agreed to look into UEFA club competition matches and Meetings: 27 August 2015; 11 February and 27 May 2016 format changes in these critical areas. EURO 2016. In this respect, a more The committee requested the support flexible approach to match scheduling of the UEFA administration to consult in the first qualifying rounds was clubs of different sizes and to draw up recommended. In addition, calendar format proposals under the guidance issues (i.e. calendar clashes) with and control of the committee chairman domestic competitions, procedures for and deputy chairmen. The committee draws, financial matters such as was kept up to date on the progress of surpluses, accounts for the club those discussions. competition finals and solidarity payments were discussed and agreed. The committee was regularly informed Also, the 2017/18 access list was about the progress of the newly adapted to include Kosovan clubs. established UEFA Youth League (UYL) and on the recommendations of the As in previous years, the committee was UYL working group and after the very kept regularly informed about the successful first full season. implementation of the financial fair

Composition of the committee on 30 June 2016

Chairman Fernando Gomes (Portugal) Deputy Chairman David Gill (England) Deputy Chairman Michael van Praag (Netherlands)

1st Vice-Chairman Karl Hopfner (Germany) 2nd Vice-Chairman Sofoklis Pilavios (Greece) 3rd Vice-Chairman Andrea Agnelli (Italy) Members Nasser Al-Khelaifi (France) Peter Fossen (Netherlands) Joan Gaspart (Spain) Theodore Giannikos (Greece) Bernhard Heusler (Switzerland) Peter Lawwell (Scotland) Pedro López Jimenez (Spain) Daniel Lorenz (Portugal) Nikola Prentic (Montenegro) Co-opted Member Roger Vanden Stock (Belgium)

28 Getty Images Youth and Amateur Football Committee

he agenda of the Youth and T Amateur Football Committee was dominated by reviews of the final tournaments staged in 2015 (U17 in Bulgaria, U19 in Greece and Regions’ Cup in the Republic of Ireland) and preparations for the two final tournaments in 2016 (U17 in Azerbaijan and U19 in Germany). The committee welcomed the reports presented and greatly appreciated the efforts of the host associations.

A variety of recommendations were issued that will shape UEFA’s youth competitions in the future. Members discussed options regarding the qualifying system for the U-17 and U-20 World Cups, given that UEFA now has five (instead of six in the past) places in each tournament, as decided by the FIFA Executive Committee in

September 2015. Regarding the UEFA organisation of mini-tournaments, the committee asked the administration to review of the current contribution system, supporting an increase in the number of players and rest days.

The committee further supported the idea of revising the Maurice Burlaz Composition of the committee on 30 June 2016 Trophy ranking method in the direction of a system including all Chairman Sándor Csányi (Hungary) participating national associations in Deputy Chairman Grigoriy Surkis (Ukraine) order to potentially also reward teams that have achieved notable progress, 1st Vice-Chairman Aivar Pohlak (Estonia) instead of the exclusively results- 2nd Vice-Chairman Sergei Roumas (Belarus) 3rd Vice-Chairman Armen Minasyan (Armenia) oriented approach currently in place. Members Hans-Dieter Drewitz (Germany) Mustafa Erögüt (Turkey) Meetings: 2 December 2015 and 19 April 2016 Richard Havrilla (Slovakia) Christian Kofoed (Denmark) Yordan Letchkov (Bulgaria) Trefor Lloyd Hughes (Wales) Paul Lyon (Gibraltar) David Martin (Northern Ireland) Rudolf Marxer (Liechtenstein) Marcelino Maté (Spain) Ludovico Micallef (Malta) Savo Milošević (Serbia) Maurizio Montironi (San Marino) Joël Muller (France) Rudi Zavrl (Slovenia)

COMMITTEE REPORTS 2015/16 29 Women’s Football Committee

uring 2015/16, the committee Champions League final or be done based on the assumption of eight slots Dmonitored preparations for the separately. for UEFA, not counting the hosts, Women’s EURO 2017 in the Netherlands France. Discussions on the format of and approved the match schedule, it The committee was presented with the qualifiers for Women’s EURO 2021 recommended the regulatory reviews and status reports on the final were ongoing. framework for the European play-offs tournaments of the women’s U19 and for the Women’s Olympic Football U17 championships in 2015 and 2016, The committee received an update on Tournament, and it monitored the and all the women’s competition the status of the FIFA international UEFA Women’s Champions League regulations were recommended to the women’s match calendar and approved season, culminating in the final played Executive Committee for approval. the European women’s match calendar in Reggio Emilia, Italy. for 2016/17. It also kept a close eye on The committee discussed different UEFA’s Women’s Football Development Following an analysis of five different format options for the qualifying Programme and Women in Football options for the appointment of UEFA competitions for the 2019 Women’s Leadership Programme, as well as on Women’s Champions League final World Cup and Women’s EURO 2021, the development of a UEFA women’s hosts, it was agreed that the host the aim being to avoid extreme results football marketing plan. should be appointed by means of a and maintain motivation. For the 2019 bidding process which could either be Women’s World Cup qualifiers, it was Meetings: 1 September 2015 and 15 February 2016 combined with bidding for the UEFA decided to retain the current format,

Composition of the committee on 30 June 2016

Chairwoman Karen Espelund (Norway) Deputy Chairman Allan Hansen (Denmark)

1st Vice-Chairwoman Anne Rei (Estonia) 2nd Vice-Chairwoman Hannelore Ratzeburg (Germany) 3rd Vice-Chairman Jasmin Baković (Bosnia and Herzegovina) Members Minke Booij (Netherlands) Bernadette Constantin (France) Sue Hough (England) Monica Jorge (Portugal) Annelie Larsson (Sweden) Camelia Nicolae (Romania) Anne McKeown (Scotland) Nikola Mužiková (Czech Republic) Aleksandra Pejkovska (FYR Macedonia) Gudrun Inga Sivertsen (Iceland) Frances Smith (Republic of Ireland) Marina Tashchyan (Armenia)

30 Getty Images Futsal and Committee

he committee monitored the UEFA T Futsal Cup, the early preparations for Futsal EURO 2018 in Slovenia, as well as the final play-off matches for the Futsal World Cup in Colombia.

The committee received a report on Futsal EURO 2016 in Serbia, which had set a new benchmark with a further remarkable increase in attendance (113,820 spectators in total), a new record for an opening match (11,161), and an impressive following in the media overall, thanks among other things to some spectacular goals.

The committee began discussions on the Youth Olympic Games in 2018 in , where football would be replaced by futsal. Moreover, it strongly supported the idea of organising test mini-tournaments in order to evaluate the competitiveness of boys’ and girls’ futsal in Europe and decided to discuss the principles for qualification at its next meeting.

An update was given on futsal development and especially the UEFA futsal coach education programme. Getty Images The committee strongly supported the idea of a futsal coach education manual for all futsal coaches. Composition of the committee on 30 June 2016

Chairman Borislav Mihaylov (Bulgaria) The committee approved the 2016/17 Deputy Chairman Avraham Luzon (Israel) international futsal calendar and, following the new calendar principles, 1st Vice-Chairman Petr Fousek (Czech Republic) agreed that teams competing in play- 2nd Vice-Chairman Fabrizio Tonelli (Italy) offs could choose to play on any of the 3rd Vice-Chairman Ilir Shulku (Albania) three days in the calendar period Members Askar Abildayev (Kazakhstan) instead of on the initially defined Emil Aliev (Russia) Alexandra Burlac (Moldova) match dates. Pedro Dias (Portugal) Zoltán Drucskó (Hungary) Meeting: 13 February 2016 Boris Durlen (Croatia) Philippe Hertig (Switzerland) José Venancio López Hierro (Spain) Ciprian Paraschiv (Romania) Hans Schelling (Netherlands) Slyva Sergejus (Lithuania) Marco Tura (San Marino) Sergii Vladyko (Ukraine)

COMMITTEE REPORTS 2015/16 31 HatTrick Committee

he HatTrick Committee is working The winners of the second edition of Executive Master for International T hard to ensure that all of UEFA’s 55 the HatTrick awards were selected by Players), Captains of Change, the member associations are given every the HatTrick Committee. The winning Women in Football Leadership assistance in moving forward, in terms projects were: Best Investment Project: Programme, and new UEFA of infrastructure, administration, Belarus – Internet TV; Best Social programmes such as UEFA GROW and management and sporting Project: Belarus – Nadzezhda Cup; Best the elite youth player development development. Special Project: Czech Republic – programme. Football (R)evolution; Best Women’s Meetings: 29 July (bureau), 14 September (bureau) The fourth HatTrick cycle started on Football Development Project: and 5 November 2015 (plenary); 1 July 2016 and will run until 30 June Romania – Football and Femininity; 8 March (plenary) and 3 May 2016 (bureau). 2020, making more than €600m Best Host Project: Republic of Ireland – available to UEFA’s 55 members and UEFA European Women’s Under-17 guaranteeing each association €11.1m Championship elite qualifying round, between 2016 and 2020. Each will April 2015. receive €1.9m a year in incentive payments for a variety of UEFA The committee was also kept up to development and incentive schemes, date on education initiatives (UEFA plus €3.5 million over the four-year Certificate in Football Management, period for investment projects. Football Law Programme and

Composition of the committee on 30 June 2016

Chairman Allan Hansen (Denmark) Deputy Chairman Giancarlo Abete (Italy)

1st Vice-Chairman Costakis Koutsokoumnis (Cyprus) 2nd Vice-Chairman Leo Windtner (Austria) 3rd Vice-Chairman Pertti Alaja (Finland) 4th Vice-Chairman Karl-Erik Nilsson (Sweden) Members Azamat Aitkhozhin (Kazakhstan) Mette Christiansen (Norway) Edvinas Eimontas (Lithuania) Neil Jardine (Northern Ireland) Michail Kassabov (Bulgaria) Jozef Kliment (Slovakia) Miroslaw Malinowski (Poland) Vicente Muñoz Castello (Spain) Sarah O’Shea (Republic of Ireland) Filip Popovski (FYR Macedonia) Sergei Safaryan (Belarus) Márton Vági (Hungary) Kurt Zuppinger (Switzerland) Special Advisor Marios N. Lefkaritis (Cyprus), Executive Committee Member

The following members left the committee during the reporting period: Marie Barsacq (France) and Stefan Hans (Germany)

32 KNVB Development and Technical Assistance Committee

his committee supervises UEFA’s academies in three participating specific women’s coach education T technical education and develop- associations (four by the end of initiatives. The shortage of female ment programmes. 2015/16). Feedback from the coaches throughout Europe was thus associations was positive and will pave addressed, and UEFA’s support for In the context of the UEFA Coaching the way for the expansion of the associations conducting women-only Convention, the committee approved project. courses as well as the creation of courses in England (Elite Youth A), a scholarship programme was Norway (Elite Youth A) and Poland The committee unanimously endorsed reinforced. (Elite Youth A and Futsal B), and UEFA’s development tournaments and Meeting: 21 September 2015 welcomed the results of the Leeds their further progress, and embraced Beckett University study on the Coaching Convention. As a result, the Jira Panel decided to focus on three key areas (tutor education, further education (CPD) and reality-based learning) over the next three years. The committee also oversaw activities in the areas of goalkeeper, futsal and fitness coaching.

Three Pro licence student exchange seminars took place during the period under review, involving some 300 participants. The committee recognises the benefits of these seminars for Europe’s future elite coaches. The committee also monitored the new format of the Study Group Scheme Sportsfile and approved the preparations for the new cycle. Composition of the committee on 30 June 2016

Chairman Giancarlo Abete (Italy) The committee oversaw progress in Deputy Karen Espelund (Norway) the grassroots area, as the member Chairwoman associations needed to be assisted in adapting their programmes to the new 1st Vice-Chairman Paul Philipp (Luxembourg) Grassroots Charter criteria. A crucial 2nd Vice-Chairman Janis Mežeckis (Latvia) event in this context was the 3rd Vice-Chairman Nikolay Tolstykh (Russia) Grassroots Workshop in Ljubljana. Members Paul Allaerts (Belgium) Dan Ashworth (England) The committee also approved a first Dušan Bajević conceptual draft of the new football (Bosnia and Herzegovina) in schools project. Karol Belanik (Slovakia) Bent Clausen (Denmark) (Poland) Among this other work, the committee Mario Gjurcinovski (FYR Macedonia) supervised the production of UEFA’s Ronen Hershco (Israel) Romeo Jozak (Croatia) various technical reports and approved Emil Kostadinov (Bulgaria) the production plans for 2015/16, Lars Richt (Sweden) including for EURO 2016. It also looked Dušan Savić (Serbia) Aurel Ticleanu (Romania) closely at the elite youth academy Hannu Tihinen (Finland) pilot project, which aimed to establish Friðin Ziskason (Faroe Islands)

COMMITTEE REPORTS 2015/16 33 Club Licensing Committee

he Club Licensing Committee met Ttwice in 2015/16, focusing mainly on reviewing the activities of the club licensing and financial fair play unit and the feedback received from national associations during the regional and annual workshops organised by the UEFA administration. This included the strategy for improving club licensing and financial fair play and for providing further assistance and support to national associations, as well as the strengthening of cooperation with the Club Financial Control Body.

The committee reviewed FIFA’s proposal for a new set of club licensing regulations to be implemented world- wide and expressed its willingness to offer full support to FIFA during this process and to assist the confederations in the implementation of club licensing systems in their territories.

The financial fair play scheme continues Sportsfile to report positive results, with European clubs consolidating the good financial performances reported in 2014. In the last two seasons (2013/14 and 2014/15) top-division clubs reported aggregated operating profits Composition of the committee on 30 June 2016 of €1.5bn compared with €700m in Chairman David Gill (England) operating losses reported in the two Deputy Chairman Michael van Praag (Netherlands) seasons preceding the introduction of financial fair play (2010/11 and 2011/12). 1st Vice-Chairman Jorge Pérez Arias (Spain) Similarly, the success of club licensing 2nd Vice-Chairwoman Ivancica Sudac (Croatia) and financial fair play was further 3rd Vice-Chairman Thomas Christensen (Denmark) confirmed by a notable decrease in the Members Roman Babaev (Russia) Bjarne Berntsen (Norway) number and value of overdue payables Volodymyr Chorno-Ivanov (Ukraine) (<90%) and in the number of disputed Ludvik Georgsson (Iceland) cases lodged with the competent FIFA Jacques Lagnier (France) Eamon Naughton authorities (<70%). (Republic of Ireland) Nick Nicolaou (Cyprus) Meetings: 28 October 2015 and 21 March 2016 Kieran O’Connor (Wales) Peter Peters (Germany) Nenad Santrač (Serbia) Francesca Sanzone (Italy) Heinrich Schifferle (Switzerland) Johan Timmermans (Belgium) Milan Vojtek (Slovakia) Aleš Zavrl (Slovenia)

34 Stadium and Security Committee

he committee discussed and The committee endorsed the joint T approved the UEFA stadium and approach of UEFA, the Council of security strategy for 2015–19. It Europe and the EU Think Tank on includes a comprehensive support pro- policing and football safety and secu- gramme for national associations and rity in working together to support is fully aligned with the relevant EU the member states and national work programmes and the Council associations in implementing the of Europe’s new Convention on an Council of Europe’s new convention. Integrated Approach to Safety, Security and Service at Football Meetings: 10 November 2015 and 21 April 2016 Matches and Other Sports Events. The Executive Committee approved the proposed strategy at its meeting on 21 January 2016.

The committee analysed and discussed recurring and emerging incident trends. As a result, it set up a working group on pyrotechnics, endorsed proposed new strategies to minimise their impact and occurrence, and commissioned an independent study into the health dangers of such devices. It also discussed the emerging threats of drones and terrorism, and requested continued research and updating of the various training and development programmes.

The committee members took part Getty Images in the annual UEFA-EU Stadium and Security Conference, and reviewed and endorsed the joint work programmes, Composition of the committee on 30 June 2016 including the UEFA-EU integrated Chairman Michael van Praag (Netherlands) stewarding, police and stadium Deputy Chairman František Laurinec (Slovakia) management training programmes.

Elvedin Begic 1st Vice-Chairman Responding to requests from UEFA (Bosnia and Herzegovina) member associations for support for 2nd Vice-Chairman David Griffiths (Wales) their stadium and security training and 3rd Vice-Chairman Markku Lehtola (Finland) development, training programmes Members Bert Andersson (Sweden) Donel Conway (Republic of Ireland) organised during the period under Jean-François Crucke (Belgium) review included courses for safety Zoran Cvrk (Croatia) officers and police commanders in Josep Garcia (Andorra) Volodymyr Geninson (Ukraine) Estonia and Romania, and ’train the Cécile Grandsimon (France) trainer’ stewarding courses in Russia, Adrian Ixari (Moldova) Slovenia and Slovakia. George Koumas (Cyprus) Stephan Schippers (Germany) Giovanni Spitaleri (Italy) Raimondas Statkevičius (Lithuania)

COMMITTEE REPORTS 2015/16 35 Medical Committee

he Medical Committee’s main role This season the injury study involved, Agency’s ADAMS database. This is an Twas to oversee the implementation for the first time, the rate of perceived important step towards intelligent and running of the medical services exertion as a new sub-study. The testing, as it is now fully integrated provided at EURO 2016 in France. The committee set up an expert panel to with testing programmes run by other medical concepts were thoroughly develop and correlate performance- organisations in Europe and around the reviewed in order to ensure the best related data with the injury data, in world. possible services at the training order to interest more coaches and grounds, stadiums and cities for the fitness coaches in the results of the The UEFA special edition of the British teams and officials. study. Journal of Sports Medicine in May 2016 on the UEFA Elite Club Injury Study was The committee also agreed to relaunch The committee monitored the highly appreciated by the international the first workshop in the UEFA Football introduction of the athlete’s biological scientific community. Doctor Education Programme, dealing passport, introduced with regard to with emergency medicine on the pitch. steroids for UEFA Champions League Meetings: 28 October 2015 and 4 April 2016 It was agreed that all participants need and EURO 2016 players last season, and a yearly refresher course to keep their recommended integrating it with the skills and knowledge up to date. blood testing programme introduced in 2013/14. UEFA signed collaboration The committee supported the progress agreements with national anti-doping of the UEFA Elite Club Injury Study, agencies across Europe, in order to under the supervision of Injury Study collect and build comprehensive athlete Group lead expert, Prof. Jan Ekstrand. profiles in the World Anti-Doping

Composition of the committee on 30 June 2016

Chairman Dr Michel D’Hooghe (Belgium)

1st Vice-Chairwoman Dr Helena Herrero (Spain) 2nd Vice-Chairman Dr José Henrique Jones (Portugal) 3rd Vice-Chairman Prof. Pierre Rochcongar (France) Members Dr Zoran Bahtijarević (Croatia) Dr Ian Beasley (England) Prof. Mehmet S. Binnet (Turkey) Dr Ioannis Economides (Greece) Dr Magnus Forssblad (Sweden) Dr John MacLean (Scotland) Dr Tim Meyer (Germany) Dr Juan Carlos Miralles (Andorra) Dr Piero Volpi (Italy) UEFA

36 Players’ Status, Transfer and Agents and Match Agents Committee

he committee was informed about T the latest amendments to the FIFA Regulations on the Status and Transfer of Players, as communicated by FIFA through various circulars. It was also informed about the legal challenges against FIFA’s ban on third-party ownership of players’ economic rights (TPO) and FIFPro’s legal complaint against FIFA’s transfer system.

Updates were given on the leading cases dealt with by the FIFA Players’ Status Committee, the FIFA Dispute Resolution Chamber and the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in relation to training compensation and solidar- ity contributions, as well as on the award rendered by CAS in the famous Barcelona case regarding the protection of minors.

Finally, a presentation was given to the committee on the various rules on Sportsfile local training of players as imple- mented in various European countries, whether in football or in other sports.

Meeting: 9 November 2015

Composition of the committee on 30 June 2016

Chairman František Laurinec (Slovakia) Deputy Chairman Ángel María Villar Llona (Spain)

1st Vice-Chairman Sergey Pryadkin (Russia) 2nd Vice-Chairman Marco Casagrande (Finland) 3rd Vice-Chairman Mario Gallavotti (Italy) Members Darren Bailey (England) Oleksandr Bandurko (Ukraine) Róbert Barczi (Hungary) Thomas Hollerer (Austria) Sergei Ilyich (Belarus) Pavel Kolev (Bulgaria) Paulo Lourenço (Portugal) Rod Petrie (Scotland) Henrik Ravnild (Denmark) Jean-Jacques Schonckert (Luxembourg) Peter Stadelmann (Switzerland) Łukasz Wachowski (Poland)

COMMITTEE REPORTS 2015/16 37 Legal Committee

he Legal Committee prepared the Tamendments to the UEFA Statutes which were submitted to the Executive Committee and adopted by the UEFA Congress in Zurich on 25 February 2015.

The committee was updated on the legal challenges against FIFA’s ban on third-party ownership of players’ economic rights (TPO) and FIFPro’s legal complaint against FIFA’s transfer system. It was also informed about the most important disciplinary, club licensing and financial fair play cases dealt with by UEFA’s disciplinary bodies, the UEFA Club Financial Control Body and the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) during the 2014/15 season, and was updated on the famous Pechstein case and its potential impact on the independence of CAS.

Finally, the committee was informed about the EU proposal to treat the entire territory of the EU as a single digital area, which could undermine Getty Images the practice of selling sport TV rights on a territory-by-territory basis and lead to reduced media right values.

Meeting: 9 November 2015

Composition of the committee on 30 June 2016

Chairman Ángel María Villar Llona (Spain) Deputy Chairman Peter Gilliéron (Switzerland)

1st Vice-Chairman François de Keersmaecker (Belgium) 2nd Vice-Chairman Aleksander Čeferin (Slovenia) 3rd Vice-Chairman Christian Andreasen (Faroe Islands) Members Efraim Barak (Israel) Mark Boetekees (Netherlands) Artan Hajdari (Albania) Herbert Hübel (Austria) Vladimir Iveta (Croatia) Nebojša Ivković (Serbia) Ainar Leppänen (Estonia) Luca Miranda (Italy) Krzysztof Malinowski (Poland) Ramish Maliyev (Azerbaijan) Krister Malmsten (Sweden) Andrew McKinlay (Scotland) Borislav Popov (Bulgaria)

38 Marketing Advisory Committee

oth Marketing Advisory B Committee meetings concen- trated mainly on EURO 2016.

The UEFA administration shared extensive and detailed information with the committee on the progress of the commercial programme (sponsor- ship, licensing and media rights), the brand and promotional plan, host broadcasting and the international broadcast centre and its structure. UEFA’s digital media strategy was an equally important topic of discussion. Looking beyond EURO 2016, the updates being made to the UEFA national team competitions structure, commercial concept and host broad- casting for 2018–22 were presented to the committee.

With the second Marketing Advisory Committee meeting of the period taking place not long before the UEFA Europa League and UEFA Champions League finals, a detailed overview of UEFA the latest branded items and the host broadcasting plans for both finals was provided.

The latest developments in the UEFA GROW marketing support programme Composition of the committee on 30 June 2016 were also shared with the committee Chairman Grigoriy Surkis (Ukraine) at both its meetings. Deputy Chairman Davor Šuker (Croatia)

Meetings: 1 December 2015 and 19 April 2016 1st Vice-Chairman Guntis Indriksons (Latvia) 2nd Vice-Chairman Ján Kováčik (Slovakia) 3rd Vice-Chairman Stewart Regan (Scotland) 4th Vice-Chairman Tiago Craveiro (Portugal) Members Olzhas Abrayev (Kazakhstan) Alexandr Alaev (Russia) Razvan Burleanu (Romania) Ioannis Farfarellis (Greece) Jonathan Ford (Wales) Atanas Furnadzhiev (Bulgaria) Javid Garayev (Azerbaijan) Kadir Kardaş (Turkey) Ilija Kitić (Slovenia) Denni Strich (Germany) Dušan Svoboda (Czech Republic) Stuart Turner (England) François Vasseur (France)

COMMITTEE REPORTS 2015/16 39 Media Committee

he Media Committee meeting Tstarted with UEFA’s new chief of communications and media, Pedro Pinto, presenting his team’s new structure and strategy. He outlined some of the changes to the depart- ment, with a focus on the importance of corporate communications and the need to work harder to proactively share what the organisation does to promote, protect and develop football.

Various communications team members then briefed the committee on projects and processes which were under way, with most of the efforts concentrated on EURO 2016. A report was presented on the workshops conducted with the press officers and communications directors of the 24 qualified teams. The importance of maintaining good Getty Images relations with the clubs and national associations was underlined, whereby regular workshops and forums clearly had a role to play.

Aside from EURO 2016, the committee was informed about the creation of a Media Outreach Programme, aimed at developing common communications strategies with national associations. A series of workshops would be held across various regions to share communications content and resources, Composition of the committee on 30 June 2016 empower the local correspondents and encourage proactive media relations Chairman Avraham Luzon (Israel) policies. Deputy Chairman Wolfgang Niersbach (Germany)

1st Vice-Chairman Roland Ospelt (Liechtenstein) Meeting: 11 February 2016 2nd Vice-Chairman Nicolai Cebotari (Moldova) 3rd Vice-Chairman Momir Djurdjevac (Montenegro) Members Janusz Basałaj (Poland) Onofre Costa (Portugal) Matej Damjanović (Bosnia and Herzegovina) Márton Dinnyés (Hungary) Otar Giorgadze (Georgia) Antonios Karpetopoulos (Greece) Tony Paeffgen (Lithuania) Heather Rabbatts (England) Tomaž Ranc (Slovenia) Stilian Shishkov (Bulgaria)

40 Fair Play and Social Responsibility Committee

nder the overarching theme of submitted by members of the football Disciplinary Body, resulting in five U Respect, the Fair Play and Social family and all six members of the sanctions on five member associations. Responsibility Committee endorsed Football for All Abilities portfolio (the Finally, all 51 EURO 2016 matches were numerous football-related projects in International Blind Sports Federation, monitored, resulting in eight reports 2015/16 in the strategic fields of peace the European Deaf Sports Organisation, on discriminatory incidents and two and reconciliation, football for all the International Federation of CP sanctions imposed on two member abilities, health, anti-racism and Football, the European Powerchair associations. discrimination, the environment and Football Association, the European football for development. Amputee Football Federation and Ongoing dialogue was maintained Special Olympics) received support for with the European fan movement on The highlights of the season were the football development projects aimed ticket pricing, security, disciplinary introduction of HatTrick funding for at increasing grassroots opportunities. matters, accessibility and other issues, social responsibility projects and the and the third annual UEFA Football implementation of the EURO 2016 Fare observers monitored 118 UEFA and Social Responsibility Report was social responsibility and sustainability club competition matches and filed published in April 2016, featuring all projects. 20 reports on discriminatory incidents, of UEFA’s and its partners’ activities which resulted in nine sanctions of 2014/15. Six UEFA member associations received imposed on nine clubs by the support for diversity and anti- independent UEFA Control, Ethics Meetings: 6 November 2015; 26 April and 27 April (bureau) 2016 discrimination projects and another and Disciplinary Body. In addition, two received natural disaster grants. 21 EURO 2016 qualifying matches were In addition, two Football First/We Care monitored and eight incident reports grants were allocated to projects submitted to the Control, Ethics and

Composition of the committee on 30 June 2016

Chairman Peter Gilliéron (Switzerland) Deputy Chairman Allan Hansen (Denmark)

1st Vice-Chairman Norman Darmanin Demajo (Malta) 2nd Vice-Chairman Elkhan Mammadov (Azerbaijan) 3rd Vice-Chairman Geogios Gkirtzikis (Greece) Members Klara Bjartmarz (Iceland) Milovan Djukanovic (Montenegro) Paul Elliott (England) Ekaterina Fedyshina (Russia) Gül Keskinler (Germany) Conrad Kirkwood (Northern Ireland) Fiona May (Italy) Eduard Prodani (Albania) Edgars Pukinsks (Latvia) Teresa Romao (Portugal) Charles Schaack (Luxembourg) Gaston Schreurs (Belgium) Phivos Vakis (Cyprus) Johan van Geijn (Netherlands) UEFA

COMMITTEE REPORTS 2015/16 41 Football Committee

he main focus of the UEFA Football Youth League has become a crucial At the IFAB annual general meeting, it TCommittee in the 2015/16 season means of bridging the gap between a was decided to continue research into were national team competitions, club club’s youth team and first team. The the possibility of introducing a fourth competitions, football education and elite youth development programme substitution in extra time. Real-life the Laws of the Game. was also applauded by the committee, testing would begin in select FIFA and which praised the efforts of UEFA in UEFA competitions. Video assistance for The national team competitions that helping the national associations match officials was also reviewed and came under the committee’s spotlight develop their players. live experiments would take place from included the European Qualifiers, EURO next season. Given the complexity of 2016, the UEFA Nations League and and An extensive presentation on the new the system, several factors would have the youth competitions. Regarding the Laws of the Game, with particular to be taken into consideration before it youth competitions, the committee was emphasis on Law 12 – denying an could be implemented. satisfied with the age categories and obvious goal scoring opportunity – the current formats. opened the way for discussions on the Meeting: 17 May 2016 away-goal rule, which many members A look at technical trends in the 2015/16 felt was no longer necessary in the UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa current game, given the quality of League and the UEFA Youth League pitches and stadiums. gave rise to discussions on how the

Composition of the committee on 30 June 2016

Chairman Davor Šuker (Croatia) Deputy Chairman Borislav Mihaylov (Bulgaria)

1st Vice-Chairman Pavel Cebanu (Moldova) 2nd Vice-Chairman Dejan Savićević (Montenegro) 3rd Vice-Chairman Zbigniew Boniek (Poland) 4th Vice-Chairman Luís Figo (Portugal) Members Demetrio Albertini (Italy) Revaz Arveladze (Georgia) Matt Crocker (England) Ivan Ćurković (Serbia) Ilcho Gjorgjioski (FYR Macedonia) Faruk Hadžibegić (Bosnia and Herzegovina) Anghel Iordanescu (Romania) Tibor Nyilasi (Hungary) Fernando Ruiz Hierro (Spain) Alexey Smertin (Russia) Special Advisor Pierluigi Collina, Chief Refereeing Officer

The following member left the committee during the reporting period: Helmut Sandrock (Germany)

42 Getty Images REPORT OF THE PRESIDENT AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 2015/16 43 AFP 44 Getty Images ii. Report of the UEFA Administration

1 July 2015 - 10 July 2016

REPORT OF THE PRESIDENT AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 2015/16 45 Foreword

The 2015/16 year was an extremely challenging period for UEFA and everyone working for the organisation. Consequently, it is only right that I take this opportunity to place on record my gratitude to all those who helped ensure continuity and continued progress, enabling UEFA to navigate these turbulent waters safely.

irst of all, I feel this is an stability and forward momentum. F appropriate moment to convey our To the members of the UEFA Executive sincere thanks to Michel Platini for his Committee, my thanks for succeeding achievements over nine years as the in giving the organisation a clear UEFA president. The organisation strategic vision despite the prevailing moved boldly forward under his circumstances, and for never wavering leadership, took far-sighted decisions, in their courage and conviction in the implemented sound measures and service of European football. policies, and put a number of key visions into practice that will doubtless UEFA’s year was marked by the stand European football in good stead outstanding success of UEFA EURO in the years to come. 2016 in France. Thanks to the

dedication, loyalty and professional UEFA Thanks are also due to Gianni attitude of everyone who worked at Infantino, an impressive leader of the the tournament, we were able to UEFA administration as general savour a football festival that secretary since 2009. His many qualities surpassed expectations at every level. were recognised by the world’s national football associations when I am proud and honoured to work they elected him as the ninth president together with all my colleagues in the of FIFA in February 2016. I have no UEFA administration, and I am full of doubt that he will contribute admiration and respect for the quality, enormously to reinforcing the bond devotion and love of football that they between UEFA and FIFA. His election bring forth on a daily basis. also gave UEFA an excellent opportu- nity to consolidate its relations with Finally, let us not forget two dear the rest of the football world – an colleagues in the administration who important element of our mission as a very sadly passed away during the FIFA continental confederation. year. Cyril Gallay and David Petriashvili will remain forever in the hearts of all It would be remiss of me at this stage those who knew them and worked not to offer thanks to Ángel María with them. Villar Llona who, in his capacity as UEFA’s first vice-president, stepped Theodore Theodoridis into the breach remarkably in a UEFA General Secretary particularly delicate situation. His experience, knowledge and wisdom were crucial in ensuring UEFA’s

46 UEFA Administration 2015/16

General Secretary Gianni Infantino, until 26 February 2016 Directors Theodore Theodoridis (National Associations) General Secretary Theodore Theodoridis, from 4 March 2016 Alasdair Bell (Legal Affairs) ad interim Stéphane Igolen (Services and Management) Josef Koller (Finance) Giorgio Marchetti (Competitions) Martin Kallen (CEO, UEFA Events SA) Guy-Laurent Epstein (UEFA Events SA – Marketing) Getty Images

REPORT OF THE UEFA ADMINISTRATION 2015/16 47 National Team Competitions

European Football Championship our years of intensive planning and to the quarter-finals – including a teams produced some remarkable F preparations coalesced into one group-stage success over Austria results against supposedly stronger memorable month in France from watched by an astonishing 99.8% of opposition. The spreading of matches 10 June to 10 July 2016. The 15th Icelandic TV viewers. over six days in international weeks European Championship final heralded an invigorating new tournament, staged at ten venues The EURO tournament was a great approach, and underlined UEFA’s throughout France, lived up to its success in terms of sporting balance, determination to enhance the appeal billing as one of the world’s major with first-time qualifiers such as Wales of the European national team game. sporting events. With records broken and Iceland challenging the more across the board, the tournament set established nations. It was also a huge Preparations for the final tournament new benchmarks and left significant success in terms of atmosphere and were challenging and fulfilling as legacies for the future. spirit. A total of 2,427,303 fans various milestones were reached. The attended the 51 matches, and the qualifying play-off draw in October The first-ever EURO to feature 24 average stadium attendance during and spectacular final-round draw in teams not only gave new countries and the tournament was 47,594, with an Paris in December passed to overall their supporters the chance to savour average of 90% of tickets sold over the satisfaction from an infrastructure and the rarefied atmosphere of a final 51 games. Fan zones were packed with operational view, and whetted the round – Albania, Iceland, Northern some 3.6 million fans, and the appetite for what was to follow in the Ireland, Slovakia and Wales were commendable active participation, summer. The preparation period making their EURO debuts – but also passion and fair play displayed by the stepped up a gear with the finalists’ provided ample proof that surprise vast majority of spectators will be workshop as the ’100 days to go’ mark results in the qualifying competition remembered. In addition, the overall arrived, and a mixture of anticipation had not been a fluke. Results in the behaviour of the coaches and players and professional determination was European Qualifiers and at the final was excellent, with just one direct red evident as the kick-off came within tournament justified UEFA’s decision card during the tournament, while the sight. Workshops and meetings to expand its premium national team referees contributed greatly with proliferated, final documents were tournament, and showed conclusive consistently high-quality displays. produced, plans were fine-tuned and evidence of the strength in depth of put into practice and infrastructures national team football across Europe. Fans in the stadiums and fan zones made ready and solid. The French were united in their enthusiasm for authorities put in place a vast security Portugal clinched their first EURO title the EURO, while millions of TV viewers programme that was to prove its value – their solid teamwork taking them to were provided with coverage by more during the tournament, and 6,500 the final at the Stade de France, where than 130 broadcasters in over 200 volunteers were primed for the various a single extra-time goal by substitute territories. The live average audience tasks which they were to eventually Éder – the last of 108 goals scored in per match reached 130 million, with carry out with devotion and total – was enough to overcome hosts over 300 million viewers tuning in to professionalism. France, who had hoped to conquer a watch Portugal’s triumph in the final. second title on home soil after that of The global reach achieved was over While the work to ensure EURO 2016’s 1984. The two teams faced off at the two billion, and cumulative audience success went on, the future was always end of a month notable for fiercely figures reached six billion. in sight. No sooner had the qualifying competitive matches, as well as the competition been completed than splendid showing of debutants on Before the final tournament, the UEFA and FIFA began addressing the Europe’s highest stage. Wales enjoyed European Qualifiers proved to be a issue of the European qualifying a magnificent run to the semi-finals, resounding success, in particular the competition for the 2018 World Cup, while Iceland brought their qualifying new Week of Football concept. More to be organised under the European form with them to France in a fans than ever watched an unpredicta- Qualifiers banner. Member associations memorable journey that took them ble competition, where unfancied provided positive feedback on the

48 Getty Images

2014–16 European Qualifiers, which make every use of UEFA’s considerable aided the decision-making process for organisational skills and experience, the 2016–18 programme. Considerable along with the inaugural UEFA Nations coordination within UEFA’s various League that will also reinforce the operational units provided a national standing of national team football associations’ manual for the qualifiers. when it kicks off in September 2018. These preparations laid solid early Further along the line, work has begun foundations for the European road on the UEFA EURO 2024 bid to Russia. regulations following the National Team Competitions Committee’s New and important challenges beckon approval of the key requirements. for the 2018–22 cycle. EURO 2020, to be played in 13 cities to celebrate the EURO 2016 is also covered in other competition’s 60th anniversary – will sections of this report.

UEFA EURO 2016 was a great success in terms of sporting balance, with first-time qualifiers such as Wales and Iceland challenging the established nations. It was also a huge success in terms of atmosphere and spirit

REPORT OF THE UEFA ADMINISTRATION 2015/16 49 50 Getty Images European Under-21 Championship ore emerging talents than ever The road to the tournament gathered be tested at the tournament. M will be on show at the next pace, with site visits, organisational The qualifying competition began European Under-21 Championship fine-tuning and confirmation of the in March 2015 and would run until final round in Poland in June 2017 due venues by the Polish Football October 2016, with play-offs to the increase in the field from 8 to Association (PZPN). A fourth scheduled for the following month. 12 teams. substitution in extra time will also

Women’s football he final-round field for the UEFA Football Association (KNVB) held EURO qualifying competition was the T Women’s EURO in the Netherlands regular discussions, including monthly perfect platform for UEFA to begin in July/August 2017 is also increasing, video conferences, and site visits to the honouring women footballers for from 12 to 16, and a record number of Netherlands helped identify the outstanding service to their respective 47 national teams entered the various infrastructures to be put national teams, by presenting awards competition. Preparations stepped up in place. to female players who have earned a further gear, with the schedule 100 or more caps. announced for the 31 matches at seven UEFA strives to raise the profile of venues. UEFA and the Royal Dutch women’s football, and the Women’s

Futsal utsal’s flourishing popularity came Record crowds turned up to the impressive 36.4 million viewers turned F to the fore at an outstanding UEFA Serbian capital’s Arena of Belgrade, on to watch the action – a 38.3% Futsal EURO 2016 in Belgrade in with attendances reaching six figures – increase on the previous finals in 2014. February 2016. 113,820 – for the first time in the com- UEFA’s venue operations team and petition’s history, and five days were their colleagues coped admirably with The draw had already given a taste of sell-outs. the demanding schedule of 20 games what was to come, with tournament in 12 days. Spain claimed their seventh ambassador Dejan Stanković taking Host broadcast partner Eurosport title in ten editions of the tournament part and Serbian tennis Novak worked closely with UEFA to ensure – their final win against Russia was Djoković lending his support. top-quality worldwide coverage. An their 27th victory in a row.

REPORT OF THE UEFA ADMINISTRATION 2015/16 51 Youth football Today’s young players are the constant improvement, UEFA sent teams), three at women’s U17 level potential stars of the future, and out a questionnaire to its associa- and four at women’s U18 level. UEFA remains committed to tions during the review period, The tournaments provide crucial advancing youth football’s requesting feedback on the international experience, with progress. The men’s and women’s current organisation of mini- player development taking priority U17 and U19 competitions involved tournaments and final rounds, over results. the usual programme of qualifying as well as on youth football in mini-tournaments, draws and site general. UEFA helps to prepare visits. Qualifying draws mostly younger players for its U17 and took place in Nyon, while final U19 competitions by staging youth round draws were held in the host development tournaments, countries, enabling them to of which 26 took place during the promote the tournaments and review period at U16 level (14 for raise public awareness. Seeking boys’ teams and 12 for girls’

European Under-19 Championship

ride at a job well done was the unbeaten. Group B’s outcome was The rapid passage of time soon saw P feeling after an excellent U19 final decided on goal difference, with all 52 teams setting out in the 2015/16 round in Greece in July 2015. Games four teams ending level on four points. qualifying round in September 2015, were played in the evening owing to Just three of the eight participants had with the elite-round field in March the high temperatures. Crowds flocked taken part in the 2014 final round in 2016 narrowed to 28 teams, from to the three venues for the 15 matches, Hungary – demonstrating the which the seven group winners would and a cumulative attendance of 66,463 competitive nature of European foot- join Germany in the final round four for the final round – an average of ball at U19 level. months later. 4,431 spectators per match – more than doubled the previous year’s figure.

Greece’s experience in staging major sports events came to the fore. The hosts responded efficiently to every challenge, and the tournament was given important exposure through Eurosport’s coverage of 14 games, including the final. A remarkable suc- cess, in light of the very difficult period the country was going through.

Spain lifted the crown for the seventh time by overcoming Russia 2-0 in the final in Katerini – the same venue at which they had won what was then the U18 title in 1995. A tightly contested tournament was notable for the fact that none of the eight teams remained

52 Sportsfile Sportsfile

European Women’s Under-19 Championship

he final tournament in July 2015 2013, staging matches at four venues, T proved to be another step forward and the final between Spain and for women’s youth football, in particu- Sweden in Netanya attracted a healthy lar for hosts Israel. The event helped to attendance of 7,230. Sweden recorded raise the profile of the women’s game a 3-1 win to complete a memorable in the country, with all three of Israel’s summer for Swedish football, adding group matches televised domestically to the U21 team’s European title and played before crowds of over triumph in the Czech Republic. 2,000. Israel’s preparations for the tournament included the opening of a The 2015/16 qualifying round with girls’ football academy, and the team 44 teams ended in September 2015, competed in Israel’s domestic women’s and the 24-strong elite round followed top division. UEFA women’s football in the spring. Seven teams – Austria, development ambassador Laura France, Germany, the Netherlands, Georges also attended the Norway, Spain and Switzerland – would tournament, fulfilling her role to join hosts Slovakia in the final round in inspire young girls. July 2016. Meanwhile, the 2016/17 quali- fying round draw, with 44 entrants Israel’s organisers made optimum use again in the pot, began the path to of their experience of hosting the the first female finals to be held in European Under-21 final round in Northern Ireland, in summer 2017.

REPORT OF THE UEFA ADMINISTRATION 2015/16 53 European Under-17 Championship

zerbaijan staged the 2014 UEFA History was made when 33,000 fans Gomes became the highest scorer in AFutsal Cup finals, and its capital converged on the Baku Olympic European U17 competition history Baku will host four EURO 2020 fixtures. Stadium for Azerbaijan’s opening when he notched his 16th goal in the Consequently, the U17 final round in group match against Portugal – the match against Austria. May 2016 gave another opportunity for biggest crowd at the time for any UEFA the national association to show its youth fixture since the inaugural U17 The road to the 2016/17 final round in organisational prowess. The host team and U19 seasons in 2001/02. The 31 Croatia began with the qualifying was the first to represent Azerbaijan in matches at four venues culminated in round draw featuring 52 teams, while any final round, enjoying the education Portugal winning their second preparations, including site visits, and experience that participation European U17 title, defeating Iberian continued apace. brings, and the tournament provided a neighbours Spain 5-4 on penalties after splendid fillip to the development of a tight 1-1 draw. During the Azerbaijani football. tournament, Portuguese striker José

European Women’s Under-17 Championship

field of 47 nations – the biggest England’s 12-0 success over Belarus the round draw, involving 44 of the 45 A yet – set out in the 2015/16 highest in any UEFA final tournament. teams aiming to join hosts Czech European Women’s Under-17 The 2016/17 competition kicked off in Republic in the finals – champions Spain Championship. Belarus hosted a splen- November 2015 with the qualifying having a bye into the elite round. did final round in May 2016 – the sec- ond final round held in the country after the women’s U19 event in 2009 – with the accent on engaging grassroots activities. The hosts were rewarded with some proud records, courtesy of afternoon kick-offs which helped attract young spectators.

An unprecedented aggregate attendance of 44,653 spectators included a competition best of 10,200 for the final in Borisov, which ended with Germany beating Spain 3-2 in a dramatic penalty shoot-out after a goalless draw, and sealing their fifth triumph in five final appearances. The fans enjoyed a record 58 goals, with Sportsfile

54 REPORT OF THE UEFA ADMINISTRATION 2015/16 55 Sportsfile Club competitions

he constant evolution of the Final access lists were approved for to €84.6m (€48.5m in 2014/15), while T European club competitions was a the 2016/17 men’s and women’s com- solidarity payments to clubs not key focus of work during the 2015/16 petitions and, following an extensive qualified for UEFA club competitions, period. A review of the current club review process, the club competition via their national associations and/or competition structure was initiated, regulations and manuals for 2016/17 leagues, went up to €120.8m (€85m in and discussions took place about were issued, including new provisions 2014/15). possible changes for the 2015–18 cycle on goal-line technology and giant at the Top Executive Programme (TEP) screens. The calendars for the 2016/17 The new distribution system not only meeting between UEFA and its and 2017/18 seasons were finalised, provided for a substantial rise in member associations in Malta in and first strategic site visits took place revenue for clubs taking part in the September 2015. The International to potential venues for the 2018 club two club competitions, but also Centre for Sports Studies (CIES) also competition finals. represented a strengthening of UEFA’s conducted an independent analysis of solidarity principle, an essential the club competitions’ impact on An important new financial component of its values. The new domestic league results and potential distribution system was put in place system was ultimately a testament to changes in the turnover strategies of for the 2015–18 club competition cycle, the progress that is made when major clubs competing in the UEFA Europa following close cooperation between stakeholders come together to reach League. Based on football and UEFA and the European Club agreement. marketing analyses focusing on the Association (ECA). Amounts available improvements required by the current to participating clubs and for solidarity formats, discussions continued in the payments increased considerably from UEFA Club Competitions Committee on the 2012–15 cycle, with all revenues the 2018–21 cycle, with informal from the UEFA Champions League and meetings taking place with clubs as UEFA Europa League centralised into requested by the committee. one single pot. The 32 clubs that took part in the 2015/16 UEFA Champions Consultation with clubs remains an League shared more than €1.345bn in important component of the quest for payments from UEFA, over €315m overall improvement, and workshops higher than the previous season, while with clubs in the club competitions more than €411.1m was shared by the served to gather useful feedback and 56 clubs that participated in the group proposals. A workshop also took place stage and/or knockout rounds of the with the UEFA Youth League semi- 2015/16 UEFA Europa League (€239.7m finalists ahead of the 2016 final round in 2014/15). Solidarity payments to in Nyon. clubs not taking part in the competitions’ group stages increased

Consultation with clubs remains an important component of the quest for overall improvement, and workshops with clubs in the club competitions served to gather useful feedback and proposals

56 REPORT OF THE UEFA ADMINISTRATION 2015/16 57 Getty Images 58 Sportsfile UEFA Champions League he football-mad city of Madrid held 10.6 million viewers tuned into the first leg deficit to emerge victorious T sway in the UEFA Champions final, and the penalty drama after extra against VfL Wolfsburg courtesy of League, with neighbours and rivals Real time attracted 12.6 million viewers, a another Ronaldo hat-trick. Madrid CF and Club Atlético de Madrid share of 67.2%. meeting in the final on 28 May 2016 for The 2015/16 season was the first in a the second time in three seasons. As Once again, the competition on the new three-season cycle for the UEFA expected, neither side gave an inch on field demonstrated why the UEFA Champions League brand founded on ’the ultimate stage’ at Milan’s San Siro Champions League is such a riveting the competition’s essential values – in front of 71,942 fans, and a penalty spectacle. Attendances remained passion, authenticity, inspiration and shoot-out was needed after a 1-1 draw stable, with a total of 6,596,926 fans excellence. A new campaign, before Real Madrid clinched their 11th (including qualifying) watching the Champions becoming Legends, title in the 61st edition of UEFA’s blue- action in the stadiums. The strength in celebrated players in their efforts to riband competition. depth of European football was also achieve the legendary status accorded emphasised by the first appearance of a only to the best of their predecessors The winning penalty in the shoot-out club from Kazakhstan – FC Astana – in on this prestigious stage. Although the was converted by Real Madrid’s the group stage, which suggested that visual identity was refreshed for the Portuguese ace , who football’s development on this new cycle, many of the iconic displayed his goalscoring prowess continent is flourishing. The group Champions League staples, such as the throughout the competition, starting stage proved extremely competitive, starball logo and the inspiring theme with a hat-trick against FC Shakhtar with a number of issues remaining music, remained in place to give the Donetsk on the opening night. He was undecided until the last matchday. Real competition its unparalleled aura. An to finish top of the goalscoring list for Madrid and FC Barcelona were the only enhanced licensing programme for the fourth year running with 16 goals, unbeaten outfits, but there were also 2015–18 also helped strengthen the one short of the record tally he set in shocks, including the failure of two- competition brand, with the partner 2013/14, and headed the competition’s time winners and competition network increased by more than 50% all-time scoring list with 93 goals. His perennials Manchester United FC to and existing categories fine-tuned, coach, Frenchman , also come through the group stage. expanded and improved. enjoyed a remarkable competition, becoming only the seventh man to win Atlético’s run to the final might have The UEFA Champions League reached the European Cup as a player and coach stalled in the round of 16 – their tie more people than ever in 2015/16, – and this after taking charge of the against PSV Eindhoven remained goal- thanks especially to an engaging social team in mid-season. less over two legs – the first-ever UEFA media campaign. The official Facebook Champions League knockout tie to do page grew 20% to 57 million during the The final proved irresistible for fans so – before they triumphed in a tense campaign, and the official Instagram worldwide, becoming the most watched 16-penalty shoot-out. There were page enjoyed massive growth of more annual sporting event in 2016. The amazing comebacks in the knockout than 1,000%, with 22 million people game was aired in over 200 countries stage. FC Bayern München staged an triggering 74 million interactions on the and was watched by a global average astonishing revival to defeat Juventus – day of the Milan final. On Twitter, audience of 160 million, with an two down at home in the second leg @ChampionsLeague finished the season estimated unique viewer reach of 380 and 4-2 behind on aggregate, the with 11.6 million followers – figures million. The climax in Milan averaged Germans fought back to score four which provide ample proof of the over 35 million viewers across the top without reply and reach the quarter- fantastic reach and popularity enjoyed six European markets. A new record was finals. Holders Barcelona lost their grip by the world’s premium club football set in Brazil, with 18.1 million viewers on the title in the quarter-finals, falling spectacle. watching the final and emphasising the 3-2 on aggregate to an Atlético team global appeal of the competition, while gradually becoming a feared proposi- Spanish interest was naturally high – tion, while Real Madrid wiped out a 2-0

REPORT OF THE UEFA ADMINISTRATION 2015/16 59 UEFA Europa League evilla FC maintained their iron grip European recoveries. The English team TV viewing figures were on the rise S on the UEFA Europa League title – were 4-2 down on aggregate after an too. The UEFA Europa League final was the Spaniards’ success in 2015/16 was hour of the quarter-final second leg aired in more than 100 countries to an their third successive triumph. The hat- against Borussia Dortmund, but scored estimated average global audience of trick saw them fight back from a first- three times late on to seal an incredi- 50 million, while achieving an esti- half deficit to overcome English ble turnaround. mated unique reach of 160 million adversaries Liverpool FC 3-1 in an viewers. Together with a record num- entertaining final at Basel’s St. Jakob- The appeal of the UEFA Europa League ber of visits to UEFA.com – 26.7 million Park on 18 May 2016 – the first to use continues to flourish. A total of over the season – all of this augurs well goal-line technology, and witnessed by 6,746,192 spectators watched matches for the future, with even greater 34,429 spectators. Sevilla’s success in 2015/16 (including the qualifying effort being put in to ensure the suc- would be rewarded with a berth in the competition) – the highest aggregate cess of the 2016/17 competition, which 2016/17 UEFA Champions League. crowd in the competition’s history. The will culminate in the final at the attendance of 75,180 at the round of Friends Arena in Solna, Sweden. The competition began a new chapter 16 second leg between English rivals in 2015/16. A fresh brand identity was Manchester United FC and Liverpool unveiled with an innovative new FC at Old Trafford also smashed the design, giving fresh impetus to the UEFA Europa League record. 2015–18 period. This new cycle also heralded a larger and more centralised marketing campaign featuring full centralisation of commercial rights. Additionally, UEFA’s Together as One promotional drive highlighted the bond between clubs and their support- ers in a competition in which tradi- tional European competitors come together with other clubs who may be enjoying the European spotlight for the first time.

The group stage kicked off with 48 clubs from 24 countries, reflecting the diversity that gives the competition its unique flavour. Albanian club KF Skënderbeu were the country’s first- ever group stage representatives, making Albania the 37th nation to take part in this stage of the competi- tion. The competitive football on offer throughout the season meant that just six of the 12 group winners survived the round of 32, while only three of the eight quarter-finalists had finished top of their groups. The knockout stages provided drama aplenty – with Liverpool staging one of the great

60 Getty Images UEFA Super Cup eciding to take the UEFA Super Barcelona emerged as 5-4 victors – Georgian Football Federation (GFF), D Cup around Europe has proved winning their fifth Super Cup – over a joined hands with the teams and match judicious, with more national associa- Sevilla FC team that had fought back officials to convey a message of peace tions savouring the opportunity to gallantly from a 4-1 deficit. and unity. The Super Cup is set to stage this showpiece between the continue its journey around Europe in reigning UEFA Champions League and The 51,490 attendance created a new Trondheim (Norway) in 2016, Skopje UEFA Europa League title-holders record for a one-off, neutral venue (FYR Macedonia) in 2017 and Tallinn which starts the new club competition UEFA Super Cup match, while the nine (Estonia) in 2018. season. goals were the most scored in any Super Cup fixture. The spectacular Tbilisi’s Boris Paichadze Dinamo Arena nature of the event was underlined by staged the 2015 encounter – the first- an opening ceremony where some ever UEFA final to be held in Georgia. 1,000 children from Georgia and eight A remarkable all-Spanish match on other countries, on the initiative of the 11 August went to extra time before FC UEFA Foundation for Children and the

The UEFA Europa League final was aired in more than 100 countries to an estimated average global audience of 50 million, while achieving an estimated unique reach of 160 million viewers

UEFA Women’s Champions League he 15th edition of UEFA’s women’s viewers watched the final, up 6% on Preparations soon got under way for T club competition kicked off with a the number of viewers for the 2013 the 2016/17 competition, which will record field of 56 clubs from 47 final between the same two teams. reach its climax at Cardiff City Stadium nations. Eurosport’s competition coverage in Wales. New access list principles attracted 17.3 million viewers overall. were in force for the season, with the The 2016 final took its traditional slot associations ranked 9th to 12th in the same May week and country as Sterling work promoted the final. A allowed to enter a second team, the men’s equivalent. The Stadio Città trophy tour featured Italian final namely their respective domestic del Tricolore in Reggio Emilia, Italy, ambassador, ex-international Patrizia championship runners-up. staged a dramatic repeat of the 2013 Panico, while Italy’s national-team final – Olympique Lyonnais claiming coach added support at their third title before more than the ticket launch. Reggio Emilia also 15,000 spectators, beating VfL hosted the Women’s Grassroots Wolfsburg 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 Festival, with UEFA women’s football stalemate. Live TV coverage across development ambassador Steph Europe and other regions boosted Houghton on hand for a game with interest in the occasion – 3.5 million local youngsters.

REPORT OF THE UEFA ADMINISTRATION 2015/16 61 UEFA Futsal Cup new name was engraved on the champions and final round hosts, The 2016/17 campaign was quickly up AUEFA Futsal Cup trophy in April Spain’s Inter FS. Sell-out crowds at the and running shortly afterwards. Ugra 2016. Ugra Yugorsk, in their competi- Palacio Multiusos in Guadalajara – Yugorsk were joined by first-ever tion debut, took the silverware back to almost 4,000 fans watched the final – entrants from Kosovo and San Marino the central Russian town of some helped to make the tournament a among a record field of 52 clubs, with 36,000 inhabitants after an epic 4-3 spectacular and colourful spectacle. 48 involved in the preliminary and win in the 2015/16 final over former main round draws in early July 2016.

UEFA Youth League he UEFA Youth League became a initiative. UEFA had young players’ such example in 2015/16 was T permanent UEFA competition in education in mind as well, with the Manchester United FC’s Marcus 2015/16 following a two-year pilot four semi-finalists attending work- Rashford, who began the season in his phase. The expanded competition shops focusing on match-fixing, anti- team’s Youth League squad, before comprised 64 teams, with 32 domestic doping and dealing with the media. forcing his way into the club’s senior champion clubs lining up alongside the ranks and winning a place in England’s youth teams of the clubs taking part in Once more, the Youth League offered EURO 2016 squad. the UEFA Champions League group an ideal setting to view some of stage. This expansion increased the Europe’s finest young talents. One competition’s quality, guaranteed wider country representation and gave even more youngsters an international stage on which to parade their talents.

Chelsea FC emerged victorious for the second successive year, edging out Paris Saint-Germain 2-1 in the final on 18 April 2016 in front of a capacity 4,000 crowd at Colovray Stadium, opposite UEFA’s headquarters in Nyon. Chelsea defeated Belgians RSC Anderlecht in the semi-finals, while Paris Saint-Germain overcame Real Madrid CF, for whom Borja Mayoral scored a record-equalling 15th UEFA Youth League goal.

UEFA staff volunteered in numbers to offer their services over the two matchdays in Nyon, and local press coverage made an important contribution to the overall attendance of 11,338 spectators. Ticket proceeds went to the UEFA Foundation for Children and its Let’s Live Our Dreams

62 Sportsfile Match operations

he review period saw delivery of Preparations for the introduction of Tthe various competition administra- goal-line technology from the 2016/17 tion elements under the match opera- UEFA Champions League play-offs tions unit’s remit – the checking and onwards were an important focal point coordination of fixtures, competition during pre-season planning work. The database management, stadium system works alongside additional inspections, player registration and the assistant referees, who continue to organisation and training of match monitor all activity in and around the officers such as delegates. On the penalty area. Goal-line technology is operational side, the match command being used to focus on the goal line, centre in Nyon continued to offer freeing the additional assistants to support to on-site venue teams and focus on the rest of the penalty area, provide solutions in cases such as and be ready to take decisions and security issues or adverse weather support the referee. conditions. Other preparation activities included Observation and/or mentoring sessions stadium inspections, various approval were organised for new delegates, and processes for the new club competition documents for delegates were updated season and European Qualifiers cycle, along with competition guidelines. The and the administration of 292 club com- delegate selection process took place petition qualifying matches at the start for EURO 2016 and the 2016–18 of the 2016/17 campaign. European Qualifiers, with arrangements made for the tournament in France and specific training sessions held to prepare the delegates for their duties.

Daily business also included the appointment of venue directors – for whom guidelines were produced and training organised for the club competitions and the 2016–18 European Qualifiers. A new stadium announcement tool was developed for the club competitions, and a new pitch monitoring concept was introduced. The 2016 programme began with a workshop for stadium inspectors in Lyon, as well as team-by-team EURO 2016 kit days with the 24 participants, while EURO 2016 featured management of the previously selected and trained match delegates. Venues announced for the 2016–18 European Qualifiers were reviewed, and work was carried out on a new online platform, TIME, which enables associations and clubs to exchange match-related information in national team and club competitions.

REPORT OF THE UEFA ADMINISTRATION 2015/16 63 Sportsfile Refereeing EFA’s refereeing programme Mediterranean island ahead of the teams to explain how the Laws of the U proceeded at full speed, with ref- referees’ course, and 40 additional Game would be interpreted. Match eree services organising courses and assistant referees were brought analysts were also recruited to brief managing referee appointments for together in Nyon in September 2015, the referees on team tactics. The hard UEFA’s competitions – including an emphasising the growing importance work paid off and the referees – aided unprecedented 210 appointments in placed on the two roles. Futsal referee by the good conduct of the players one day for the first two UEFA and referee observer courses ensured and coaches – received positive praise Champions League and UEFA Europa continued progress in these specialist for their displays in France, especially League qualifying rounds in summer sectors. in terms of consistency and protection 2015. of the game’s image. The year under review was marked in Support was given to the Referees particular by EURO 2016. Eighteen The training of promising young Committee in ensuring the efficient teams of referees, assistant referees referees (male and female) stays in running of all matters related to match and additional assistant referees were capable hands, courtesy of UEFA’s officials. Traditional refereeing events chosen for the tournament, and a Centre of Refereeing Excellence (CORE) continued – the summer gathering in preparatory workshop was staged at – a fact clearly underlined by the EURO Nyon to kick off the 2015/16 season, the referees’ EURO base in Enghien- 2016 appointment of Polish referee and the winter refresher courses for Les-Bains, near Paris. Eventually, 94 Szymon Marciniak, the first CORE European referees in Cyprus in match officials took part in the final graduate to officiate at a EURO final February 2016. An assistant referee round, which began with Referees round. course took place on the Committee members visiting the 24

Anti-doping and medical matters 015/16 heralded the introduction League and EURO 2016. This set new a workshop in Paris in March 2016, and 2 of UEFA’s most comprehensive anti- standards in terms of intelligence none of the 2,242 samples collected doping programme ever. This included gathering and testing optimisation, within the EURO programme tested the introduction of the World Anti- while also acting as a crucial deterrent positive. Doping Agency (WADA) athlete’s to doping. biological passport, helping to identify On the medical front, UEFA’s elite club possible steroid use, a long-term UEFA’s 2015/16 education programme injury study continues to win plaudits sample storage programme enabling included the development of an for the scale and quality of the data retrospective identification of e-learning platform and new player that helps clubs, associations and the prohibited substances, and further information leaflets, while education scientific community in their own work development of the comprehensive sessions at youth final rounds firmly in treating and preventing injuries. The blood and urine in and out-of- warned young players about the study entered its 15th year, and was competition testing programme. dangers and consequences of doping. the subject of a special edition of the British Journal of Sports Medicine in The review period brought with it a EURO 2016’s major anti-doping June 2016. In addition, a specific EURO more coordinated, intelligence-led programme kicked off at the start of 2016 injury study aimed to assess the programme, as UEFA signed 2016 and comprised in and out-of- risk, pattern and severity of injuries at cooperation agreements with the competition testing up to and the finals – improving understanding national anti-doping agencies (NADOs) including the tournament. All 24 team of injuries by spreading data and of teams participating in the UEFA doctors signed a charter pledging to knowledge obtained to the wider Champions League, UEFA Europa help UEFA achieve a drug-free EURO at football family.

64 REPORT OF THE UEFA ADMINISTRATION 2015/16 65 Getty Images Grassroots football

ending the grassroots remains a football trends, with the resulting T major priority for UEFA in support portfolio helping national associations of its belief that football is a game for meet the criteria of the revised UEFA all, and the highlight of the review Grassroots Charter. Guidelines were period was the 11th UEFA Grassroots also approved for a new football in Workshop in Ljubljana, Slovenia, in schools project, while the UEFA GROW April 2016. The workshop’s objective project reinforced support to national was to give UEFA member association associations to help them increase grassroots managers a platform to grassroots participation. exchange knowledge and expertise. Discussions also centred on new ideas and activities for implementation at national level, the effective marketing and promotion of the grassroots game, and challenges relating to the new pillars of the UEFA Grassroots Charter.

In September 2015, European national associations celebrated the first-ever UEFA Grassroots Week, held as part of the European Week of Sport under an agreement with the European Commission. UEFA donated a maxi- pitch to Belgium, and the week featured the announcement of UEFA’s annual Grassroots Awards recognising the best leaders, clubs and projects around Europe.

National associations supplied data to UEFA identifying current grassroots

UEFA Regions’ Cup he ninth edition of UEFA’s amateur T team competition ended in the Republic of Ireland at the start of the reporting period, with the home team, Eastern Region IRL, winning the 2015 final tournament in Dublin. The com- petition returned for 2016/17, with 38 nations in the preliminary and inter- mediate round. The finals of the tenth UEFA Regions’ Cup are scheduled for June 2017, and will be hosted by one of the eight qualifiers.

66 FRF Solidarity and support for national associations

The bond between UEFA and its 55 member associations is a cornerstone of European football, underpinned by UEFA’s unstinting support, assistance and guidance to each. This backing nourishes the well-being of the European game, and gives vital impetus to the progress and development of associations across the continent.

HatTrick EFA reinvests considerable reve- Football Association of Montenegro number of national associations as U nue in European football, and christened its new House of Football. part of operational support granted funding provided through its HatTrick for the 2014–16 European Qualifiers. scheme helps national associations The 2015 HatTrick Award winners were New HatTrick regulations were also develop their sporting and administra- chosen – Belarus, Czech Republic, adopted for the 2016–20 cycle. tive infrastructures. The fourth Republic of Ireland and Romania – HatTrick cycle (2016–20) will see rewarding these associations for their HatTrick help across Europe is European associations share an excellent work in the various award reinforcing foundations and nurturing increased total budget of €600m. categories under the three HatTrick football’s development at all levels. pillars: investment, knowledge-sharing A number of projects reached fruition and sports education. in 2015/16. Among them, thanks to HatTrick aid, the Portuguese Football Follow-up work continued on Federation opened its new Cidade do approved HatTrick projects, various Futebol complex; the Football site visits helped plans and visions take Association of Slovenia inaugurated a shape, and pitch, floodlight and new national football centre, and the stadium facility experts visited a

Stadiums and security EFA’s wide-ranging 2015–19 sta- assistance and guidance to European commanders, and events in and U dium and security strategy was national associations. The strategy was the United Arab Emirates were staged rolled out over the year. The strategy unveiled to some 300 delegates at the as part of the UEFA-AFC inter- features a four-year support pro- UEFA-EU Stadium and Security confederation stadium and security gramme to help UEFA member associ- Conference held in in assistance programme. ations implement the Council of September 2015. Europe’s Convention on an Integrated Approach to Safety, Security and Meanwhile, research continued into Service at Football Matches and Other the emerging threat of drones, while a Sports Events. research project was also launched on health risks related to pyrotechnics UEFA’s vision also includes proposed and their use in stadiums. tough exclusion and travel restrictions for known troublemakers; training for Courses and ’train the trainer’ stewards, stadium managers, police workshops continued for stewards, and safety officers; and constant club safety officers and police

REPORT OF THE UEFA ADMINISTRATION 2015/16 67 Education programmes and research yon hosted the fourth edition of Exchanging knowledge among N the UEFA Women in Football national associations drives the KISS Leadership Programme in May 2016, (Knowledge and Information Sharing with 24 women from member associa- Scenario) programme. KISS recognises tions working on skills and receiving the importance of collective knowl- advice to prepare them for leadership edge for the benefit of European foot- and decision-making positions in foot- ball, in line with its mission to promote ball. A one-year mentoring pro- solidarity and equality across the gramme follows the training week to football family. offer these potential future leaders priceless assistance and guidance. Highlights in 2015/16 included a KISS marketing workshop in Istanbul, in UEFA’s education campaign gathered which 85 national association experts speed, with two new personal discussed the new UEFA GROW development programmes getting initiative aimed, among other things, under way: the UEFA Executive Master at providing a long-term marketing for International Players (UEFA MIP) vision to associations to help them aims to keep ex-internationals within implement effective strategies. the administration and management National associations also joined forces of football after they have hung up in several workshops to exchange best their boots (24 former players practices in relation to women’s club embarked on the first MIP sessions), and league football development. and on the legal front, UEFA’s new Football Law Programme is keeping Research projects regularly produce specialists up to speed and broadening fascinating new data on European their understanding of football law football and support the football developments. family in fulfilling its mission. UEFA awarded its 2016/17 research grants to A number of established initiatives seven projects, selected from a field of remain a source of invaluable learning some 50 proposals from leading for the football family at large. The academic researchers and supported third edition of the Executive Master by UEFA member associations. The in European Sports Governance projects cover topics such as football (MESGO), for professionals in the and human rights, the effectiveness of sports sector wishing to broaden their European match-fixing laws, and the knowledge of European practices, engagement of disabled people in the came to an end, and applications European game. opened for the fourth edition. A truly international feel marked the UEFA Certificate in Football Management (UEFA CFM) programme, with editions all over Europe, including one co- hosted by the associations of the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland – giving association and club staff in particular the opportunity to hone their football management skills.

68 Getty Images Captains of Change he Capitains of Change pro- from the first cycle successfully imple- reaching 100 top clubs in the country. T gramme to foster diversity and mented across Europe.A first-ever In the spring of 2016, UEFA agreed to inclusion within European football’s diversity map (gender and ethnic back- support three more diversity and management established solid founda- ground) was created in Norway, while inclusion projects run by the national tions and made an encouraging impact diversity was included in Finland’s associations of Italy, Romania and in its first full year, with 11 projects football quality management system, Scotland.

REPORT OF THE UEFA ADMINISTRATION 2015/16 69 Top Executive Programme (TEP) EFA’s programme to assist member The latest UEFA TEP kit assistance U association executives in their scheme was delivered, and the 2015/16 decision-making continued its inva­ good governance HatTrick incentive luable role. A TEP strategy meeting scheme was launched. In addition, in Malta in September 2015 began UEFA analysed national associations’ the mutual process of discussion and financial statements, and assisted in analysis for the season, and centred on the process of mandating UEFA to sell strategic football matters, including national team competition media football political matters, the future rights collectively for the 2018–22 of international club competitions and period. funding for the fourth HatTrick cycle (2016–20). UEFA also provided ad hoc advice to individual FAs’ top executives on request.

Study Group Scheme he Study Group Scheme, facilitating Ttechnical exchange between European national associations, entered the second season of a two- year cycle focussing on three main pillars: coach education, women’s foot- ball and grassroots football. More than 900 technicians participated in a total of 26 seminars in 2015/16, with, in each case, one host association welcoming their counterparts for discussions, practical session and theoretical work.

70 Sportsfile Coaching major event in the reporting A period was the UEFA Coach Education Workshop in Bratislava, Slovakia, in September 2015, attended by the technical directors and coach education heads of UEFA’s member associations. The workshop agenda included the presentation of a research study on the UEFA Coaching Convention, conducted by Leeds Beckett University in the UK, and focusing on the impact of the convention since its launch in 1997. The study’s findings and recommendations led to UEFA’s football education services and the UEFA Jira Panel of coach education experts identifying three immediate priorities: reality- based learning, development of coach educators and further education. Key activities are now being developed in these three priority areas. Sportsfile Courses for coaches studying for their UEFA Pro diploma moved into a sixth year, with three sessions attended by assistance provided to national UEFA forum, and a group of eminent some 270 participants in 2015/16. associations wishing to organise coaches, led by UEFA coaching Experienced club coaches David Moyes diploma courses tailored specifically to ambassador Sir Alex Ferguson, was and Thomas Schaaf came to Nyon to women. Work was completed on a recruited for EURO 2016, where they share invaluable insights into the comprehensive futsal coaching manual attended matches, exchanged ideas various facets of the coach’s to foster development in this sector, and opinions, and compiled a wealth demanding job. Both Georgia and while preparations continued for of information for the official Malta launched their first Pro diploma 2016’s major event, the National Team tournament technical report. courses, and assistance was provided Coaches’ Conference in Paris, which to Gibraltar with a view to the would feature a review of tactical and association establishing its first B level technical trends at EURO 2016. course. Final plans were also set for a Balkan ’tutor the tutor’ scheme in the Monitoring such trends remains a goalkeeping sector, to be staged in fundamental element of UEFA’s Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, FYR technical and football education Macedonia and Serbia. activities. Experienced technical teams were present at UEFA final rounds and Women’s football coaching occupied analysed developments in the club an important role during the review competitions, producing detailed period, with UEFA Pro and UEFA A technical reports along the way. Top licence scholarships granted to club coaches examined the state of the promising female coaches, and European club game at their annual

REPORT OF THE UEFA ADMINISTRATION 2015/16 71 Women’s football development he impact of the UEFA Women’s promoting the women’s game and Finally, the UEFA Women’s Champions T Football Development Programme inspiring forthcoming generations. League final in Reggio Emilia in May and its drive to promote the women’s 2016 was the setting for a series of game across Europe was captured in a The women’s football development grassroots activities, with target report issued in the review period, team also launched the Free-Kicks groups identified and initiatives which compiled best practices from all programme – a series of knowledge- developed in consultation with the UEFA member associations. To aid that sharing schemes, practical courses and national associations of San Marino drive, a women’s football marketing advisory programmes in areas such as and Italy. conference was held during EURO on-field and off-field development, 2016, and was attended by national knowledge-sharing among national association general secretaries, associations, promotion, coaching and marketing directors and women’s refereeing. Support is being tailored football experts. The tournament in to each association’s individual needs. France also presented an ideal opportunity to raise the profile of Research on participation targets and national association staff working in strategies specific to women and girls women’s football, and to create was conducted as part of a campaign networking opportunities. put together with UEFA’s marketing division and specialist consultants to High-profile figures joined forces with boost the game’s growth throughout UEFA to make a crucial contribution as Europe. Representatives of six national role models. England captain Steph associations also gathered in Keflavik, Houghton and former Germany Iceland, to share best practices for international Nadine Kessler became women’s football academies and elite UEFA women’s football development youth schemes, while the UEFA GROW ambassadors, joining Camille Abily and marketing support programme has Laura Georges (both from France), been key in providing advice to Verónica Boquete (Spain) and Lotta associations on promoting women’s Schelin (Sweden). The six are football and its image.

Elite youth player development he second season of UEFA’s ambi- U14/15 development tournament levels across Europe, in the presence of T tious academy development pro- hosted by FYR Macedonia featured all expert technical observers and offering gramme maintained the close of the pilot project countries. the possibility of associated women- attention being given to the four pilot only coaching courses. The mission of associations in the project (Armenia, An elite youth player workshop was the development tournaments remains FYR Macedonia, Georgia and newcom- held in Nyon in conjunction with the the same – gathering football and life ers Belarus), and initial visits were UEFA Youth League finals in April experiences takes full precedence over made to each association. A series of 2016, while young footballers gained actual results. UEFA-monitored practical sessions initial international experience in 33 were held with the quartet as the pro- development tournaments at men’s/ gramme gained momentum, and an women’s U16 and women’s U17/U18

72 REPORT OF THE UEFA ADMINISTRATION 2015/16 73 Sportsfile Good governance

Good goverance projects hee UEFA member associations Furthermore, experts from both UEFA requirements for standard player T improved their domestic govern- and its pool of external specialists contracts continued, and progress was ance in the review period by running a were sent to assist confederations and noted by all the stakeholders involved. total of 56 good governance projects. their individual member associations in Intermediaries (formerly known as UEFA invested €5.4m in those projects their ambitions to further develop players’ agents) are now being through the good governance various areas of football and its discussed within a social dialogue incentives scheme administered by the management. working group following a proposal national association services unit. Most from the ECA. projects helped to further consolidate By way of example, activities with the the effectiveness and efficiency of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Meanwhile, the complaint lodged associations, not only in developing were manifold: UEFA experts jointly by UEFA and FIFPro questioning their strategies, but also in enhancing participated in the confederation’s the legality of third-party ownership transparency and solidarity. coach education and grassroots (TPO) was reviewed by the European conferences and supported stadium Commission. UEFA’s mission also calls upon the and security development in Malaysia, organisation to contribute to the the United Arab Emirates and Iran; development of football in other parts technical experts undertook women’s of the world, assisting the five other football development and coach continental confederations and their education assignments in China, national associations by providing Singapore and Malaysia; marketing expertise and knowledge, and sharing support was given to the W-League in information across football’s entire Australia and clubs in Saudi Arabia; range of activities and sectors. and grassroots promotion, marketing and development expertise was shared In the 2015/16 season, UEFA’s impact in Oman and Vietnam. Meanwhile, on football’s development extended two AFC national team competition beyond European boundaries, courtesy staff were seconded to EURO 2016 to of memorandums of understanding participate in UEFA’s competition- signed with other confederations. The related, operations and marketing fruits of those labours were seen in activities at the tournament. various ways through the year, especially in terms of the assistance At the end of 2016, most of UEFA’s provided by experts in assessing memorandums of understanding with different areas of both technical and other confederations were due to non-technical development. expire, giving UEFA the opportunity to plan future strategies in collaboration Participants from other confederations with its continental counterparts. attended UEFA seminars, workshops and courses such as the UEFA Under the auspices of the European Grassroots Workshop (in Slovenia), the Commission, work within the social EURO 2016 national team workshop dialogue committee for professional (Geneva), a Study Group Scheme football – comprising UEFA, the session on elite women’s football European Professional Football (Netherlands), an edition of the Leagues (EPFL), the European Club Certificate in Football Management Association (ECA) and players’ union (Azerbaijan) and Centre of Refereeing FIFPro Europe – towards the full Excellence (CORE) courses (Nyon). implementation of the minimum

74 Corporate governance and compliance ompliance is now considered one total, were successfully completed UEFA’s values include respect of rules C of UEFA’s daily activities, rein- and delivered positive and constructive and keeping high-quality standards, forced through guidelines, the respect assessments. while compliance with defined policies of internal rules and/or external means that its image and reputation standards, and education and controls. The results of the second risk are protected. Due diligence processes Governance and compliance discipline management evaluation were are in place to implement a compliance was reinforced in the review period consolidated, leading to a decrease in culture across UEFA – in particular, with the backing of management, medium/high risks and an increase in maintaining a culture in which UEFA which provided appropriate momen- low risks, which shows that the employees know what is expected of tum and timely support. Corporate initiative is adding value. UEFA’s culture them. UEFA is clearly reaping the project governance is in place, as well now includes a clear wish to strive for benefits of the principles put in place as close supervision of key initiatives at continuous improvement in governance for its daily business, in terms of results, corporate level, such as data privacy practices. Key measures taken and as well as increasing awareness across and master data management. Three prompt actions initiated when needed the organisation. governance and compliance audit ses- mean that UEFA is deriving worthwhile sions, covering more than ten units in benefits.

REPORT OF THE UEFA ADMINISTRATION 2015/16 75 UEFA Club licensing and financial fair play lub licensing and financial fair The Club Financial Control Body (CFCB) demonstrating the strong effect of C play activities reached a historic welcomed a new chief investigator, financial fair play was noted, with a landmark during the review period former Belgian prime minister Yves decline in overdue payables from €57m with the publication of Club Licensing: Leterme. The body assessed the over- in 2011 to just over €5m as of 30 June 10 Years On, which gives an overview due payables and break-even situation 2016 (a decrease of nearly 92%), and of the evolution and achievements of of all 236 clubs taking part in the the reduction of disputed and club licensing and financial fair play 2015/16 UEFA competitions, and some deferred payments to players (down across Europe since the system was clubs were invited to discuss their almost 72% and 37% respectively introduced. The retrospective flavour situation, resulting in several between June 2014 and June 2016). continued with the publication in sanctions. Club compliance audits were spring 2016 of the 2013–15 Compliance performed in several countries, break- The club licensing process for 2016/17 and Investigation Activity Report – an even compliance visits were conducted concluded with the submission of 54 extensive and transparent review of under the instruction of the CFCB licensors’ decisions from UEFA’s the licensing system and financial fair investigatory chamber, and numerous member associations. A total of 472 play process over the last two seasons. bilateral meetings were held with top-division clubs were granted a clubs and national associations at licence, with 86 others not receiving a The new UEFA Club Licensing and which UEFA offered advice and licence. Support was given to UEFA’s Financial Fair Play Regulations, which guidance. newest member, Kosovo, to help with had come into force in June 2015, were the implementation of a club licensing a major focal point of the team’s work. The strict application of the financial system which would enable the The new regulations were highlighted fair play rules by the CFCB, added to association to grant the necessary at the annual UEFA club licensing and the body’s constructive approach in licences for UEFA club competition financial fair play workshop in guiding the clubs, has brought participation in 2017/18. Meanwhile, Dubrovnik, Croatia, in September significant results which show that the financial statements of over 700 2015, and its new provisions were financial fair play is working. top-division clubs were analysed to explained at meetings of the European Combined club losses decreased for gather data on the latest trends and Club Association (ECA), as well as at the fourth consecutive year, and now financial situation of top-flight clubs other key events. stand at just over €320m, compared throughout Europe. with €1.7bn in 2011. Other evidence

Sports integrity EFA reinforced its recent initia- match-fixing module. A working group continues to monitor betting patterns U tives aimed at combatting match- of important stakeholders helped across Europe, the UEFA Integrity fixing in football, with the UEFA prepare for all eventualities, and Platform enables individuals to comprehensive EURO 2016 integrity the EURO programme’s outcome was communicate information to UEFA programme proving particularly fruit- positive, with no integrity concerns concerning match-fixing, and ful. The programme included educa- reported. education sessions are held at UEFA’s tion, monitoring and cooperation with official tournaments and development key stakeholders. In October 2015, the UEFA match- competitions across Europe. An fixing working group held its latest e-learning tool on match-fixing is also The 24 squads and 18 referee teams at meeting in Porto, and strengthened its fully operational for youth players EURO 2016 received a match-fixing call for criminal provisions against taking part in the final tournaments of presentation before the tournament, sporting fraud to be included in pan- UEFA competitions. and the e-learning programme for European legislation. Meanwhile, 6,500 volunteers in France included a UEFA’s betting fraud detection system

76 Respect

he UEFA football and social T responsibility programme is aimed at strengthening the health and integrity of both football and society as a whole, and the core pillar of Respect is integral to this.

The theme comprises several strands – respect for opponents, opposing fans, referees and the game itself. The Respect strategy also embraces the promotion of diversity, peace and reconciliation, football for all abilities, health, respect for the environment and the No to Racism campaign against all forms of discrimination and violence. UEFA has consolidated its Respect values in conjunction with partners, making use of the highest available competition platforms to increase awareness and raise the profile of this key message. UEFA

A dedicated No to Racism campaign EURO music ambassador David Guetta, took place during the Fare Action UEFA’s chief refereeing officer Pierluigi Weeks in October 2015, in support of Collina and France international Blaise the Fare theme ’We are all Football Matuidi, who all appeared in a TV spot People’. An integrated campaign, that received major exposure. An supported by players, clubs and extensive online campaign also urged national associations, was profiled at fans to share their universal passion 40 matches across UEFA’s club for football, and the results were competitions, as well as at 54 outstanding, with UEFA producing a European Qualifiers, promoting a second video at the end of the European football free of racism, tournament to thank fans for their intolerance and xenophobia. No to conduct. Racism videos were produced for UEFA’s member associations, for use by In addition, a tobacco-free policy was clubs in UEFA competitions, as well as implemented for EURO 2016. All ten for transmitting the message via stadiums hosting matches in France UEFA’s digital platforms. were tobacco-free zones, inside and outside. Volunteers and stewards were A specific campaign under the Respect trained to ensure that spectators were banner enjoyed success at EURO 2016. made aware of the policy and the #CelebrateFootball promoted five key need to comply with it at all times. areas of Respect: diversity, fan culture, health, environment and stadium access for all, and called upon fans to celebrate football and respect its many values. The campaign was backed by

REPORT OF THE UEFA ADMINISTRATION 2015/16 77 78 Olivier Moeckli Social responsibility and sustainability

EFA’s football and social inclusion were all on show at the 2016 EURO 2016’s approach to social U responsibility programme encom- Champions Festival ahead of the final responsibility and sustainability earned passed a wide range of projects and in Milan. The link between major the tournament ISO 20121 certification contributions throughout 2015/16, competitions and FSR came to the fore for operations in France. Both UEFA emphasising the organisation’s strong in March 2016, when Juventus star Paul and EURO 2016 SAS implemented an desire to make a telling contribution to Pogba, voted onto the 2015 UEFA.com innovative sustainability strategy society. UEFA’s current five-year users’ Team of the Year, presented a building on achievements at the 2008 football and social responsibility cycle, €100,000 cheque to the International and 2012 finals. Spectators and UEFA which runs from 2012 to 2017, is having Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in officials were encouraged to use public a profound and positive impact. support of its campaign on behalf of transport to stadiums, and were landmine victims in Afghanistan. Other provided with an ’eco-calculator’ to For the third successive year, UEFA stars supported UEFA’s FSR drive, assess the impact of their travel in issued a social responsibility report including , Eden terms of CO2 emissions. New initiatives highlighting the various projects and Hazard, Andriy Yarmolenko, Marco included carpooling and taxi-sharing activities during the 2014/15 season. Reus and Olivier Giroud, who joined options to optimise mobility. The The first two reports had been posi- UEFA in supporting the WWF Earth waste management onus was on tively received by member associations Hour campaign to highlight environ- reducing the amount of waste, reusing and FSR partners, whose feedback mental issues, including climate change. materials and recycling. The Foot For emphasised that the reports help give Food initiative saw food surpluses their work added credibility. In partnership with the Fare network, redistributed through the Banques UEFA continued to monitor matches Alimentaires network at the ten EURO The football and social responsibility for any form of racism and 2016 venues in France and at the team worked with the Centre for discrimination. In addition, in a 30- international broadcast centre (IBC) in Access to Football in Europe (CAFE) to second TV clip which was widely Paris. Energy and water consumption promote Total Access, Total Football, broadcast, players conveyed a strong were optimised, and renewable energy aimed at continually improving access No to Racism message. solutions were promoted. to stadiums for people with disabilities. CAFE’s second conference under this UEFA’s FSR team has been heavily UEFA’s overall EURO sustainability banner, held in Paris in February 2016, involved in work inspiring UEFA’s strategy aimed to leave a positive enhanced the dialogue surrounding national associations to invest in social long-term legacy, not only for France access to football for disabled people. responsibility and its many facets, and its host cities, but also for UEFA Meanwhile, Respect Access for All at which was the focus of a two-day itself. The knowledge gained is to be EURO 2016 promoted accessibility workshop in Nyon in February, funded extended to other European through infrastructure and services. by UEFA’s HatTrick programme and competitions and shared with UEFA’s Highlights were the French audio- attended by association member associations. descriptive commentary service for representatives. partially sighted and blind people, and improved stadium accessibility for Promotion of healthy lifestyles by UEFA people using wheelchairs. Volunteers included support for the World Heart were specifically trained to guide, Federation’s World Heart Day in support and respond to inquiries from September 2015, while a no-smoking disabled fans. policy was in force at the venues for the UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa Football for All Abilities is an essential League and UEFA Women’s Champions motto within UEFA’s FSR work, and League finals, as well at all 51 EURO partners were given high-profile 2016 matches in France. The objective platforms. Consequently, blind was to protect fans and staff from the football, Special Olympics, amputee dangers of ’second-hand smoke’, and football and activities promoting social set a good example to young people.

REPORT OF THE UEFA ADMINISTRATION 2015/16 79 UEFA Foundation for Children

he UEFA Foundation for Children – assistance to projects using football to UEFA competitions provided an T launched in April 2015 to use foot- strengthen social cohesion and important platform. The 2015 UEFA ball’s social force in helping children encourage reconciliation and peaceful Super Cup match in Tbilisi, Georgia, and defending their rights – hit the coexistence. saw 1,000 disadvantaged children from ground running in its first full year of eight neighbouring countries join FC operation. A series of initiatives were planned to Barcelona and Sevilla FC players and help child migrants in Europe and the match officials in forming a human No fewer than 51 projects were beyond following a €2m UEFA chain for peace. Children from launched in 44 countries, of which 20 Executive Committee donation to the disadvantaged backgrounds escorted were in Europe, destined to create foundation in September 2015, and the teams onto the pitch for the UEFA positive experiences for children and support was forthcoming for urgent Europa League semi-finals and final. youngsters, and underlining UEFA’s humanitarian projects led by Terre des The 20,000 Children’s Smiles project at wish to play an active role in society. Hommes (TdH) to assist unaccompa- EURO 2016 gave 20,000 under- nied children and families with chil- privileged youngsters the chance to Some 500,000 children and young dren under five years of age in FYR attend matches, and backing was adults have benefited from the Macedonia and Greece. In addition, given to the streetfootballworld foundation’s support since its launch, a project began with the aim of using Festival16 in Lyon, featuring 500 young- and 20 tonnes of material have been football to support refugees and dis- sters from disadvantaged communities sent by the foundation to support placed people in Ukraine, in coopera- worldwide. In total, thanks to the foun- projects in aid of children. tion with the Football Federation of dation, 21,680 children attended UEFA Ukraine. matches, including finals. The foundation consolidated its pro- ject at the Za’atari refugee camp in Projects then kicked off in 13 different The foundation gained numerous Jordan to help children displaced by the European countries in June 2016, plaudits for its work in its first year, conflict in Syria, and took a full role in organised in cooperation with 19 earning the body its first honour – the the Just Play project in the Pacific different associations. A total of 30,176 Foundation of the Year prize at the region that seeks to encourage physi- direct beneficiaries were soon involved, 2015 Peace and Sport Awards in Monte cal activity among 6 to 12-year-olds. 65% of them refugees and 35% Carlo. The foundation is also giving financial teachers, coaches and social actors.

80 UEFA FOUNDATION UEFA Communications

hange and innovation marked the attracted some 300 million visits and a core UEFA message that football C 2015/16 communications year, between 1 June and 11 July, with more is accessible to everyone. The team was with new structures and strategies than 1.5 billion page impressions. The involved with HR in the launch of the that will serve to strengthen UEFA’s official EURO 2016 app clocked up 10.7 UEFA People project and a new careers efforts to promote, protect and million downloads overall. Facebook, page on UEFA.org, as well as providing develop football. The importance of Twitter and Instagram accounts grew support, material and coverage for a corporate communications and brand by 39%, 112% and 55% respectively variety of UEFA events and initiatives. reputation management was rein- over the tournament, with over forced, and project management work 3 billion impressions of UEFA-produced Alongside the organisation of press was redeveloped to improve and content. During the entire review conferences and regular production of increase coordination with internal period, UEFA’s digital platforms media releases highlighting the broad and external stakeholders. Among the attracted over 600 million visits, and range of UEFA activities, decisions, results have been the new, improved this success meant that a considerable agreements and events, the media/PR UEFA Direct magazine, a significant amount of material was available for team issued statements and stories to rise in followers on UEFA’s social media UEFA.com and various mobile media, communicated disciplinary platforms, a revamped UEFA.com applications for the 2016/17 campaign. decisions and handled crisis homepage, an improved media and PR communication in key situations. The strategy, development of the UEFA Corporate communications were team also arranged media interviews intranet and an updated editorial plan. strengthened during the review featuring UEFA officials for selected period, with a new strategy featuring outlets, and fine-tuned its media The year was notable for the effort campaigns to promote development, monitoring activities. A month-long made across the communications team education and grassroots around all trial to choose a media analysis service in preparing for and working at EURO competitions, while prominent ended with Kantar Media being 2016. National association workshops ambassadors were deployed to help selected. The media/PR team also took place with the press officers and convey key messages. A particular communicated the decisions, initiatives communications directors of all 24 highlight came at EURO 2016, where and events of the UEFA Foundation for participating teams – emphasising the five projects came together under the Children in articles and media releases, necessity for regular workshops or Respect banner – diversity, health, fan alongside coverage on the forums with associations and clubs to access, fan culture and the environ- foundation’s own website and social reinforce good relations and to share ment. In particular, the media channels. and align content. A clear crisis #CelebrateFootball campaign focusing communications strategy was also set on the game’s many positive values, In addition to its usual delivery of up in advance, especially in view of the and highlighted elsewhere in this booklets, manuals, technical reports security situation in France. report, reached out to the public and and brochures, the publications team media. Impressive corporate successfully launched a redesigned On the EURO media front, journalists communications messaging at EURO UEFA Direct. After consultations with were kept up to date with all UEFA featured some 800 pieces of bespoke internal and external stakeholders, as and tournament news, as well as on content on social media channels and well as an editorial audit, UEFA’s team media briefings and other events UEFA.org. official magazine was revamped to during the tournament via the special reinforce the focus on the diverse media information system (MIS). Two Moving away from EURO 2016, nature of European football, and to main press conferences were staged at corporate communications also further highlight UEFA’s mission to the Stade de France to top and tail the promoted and delivered the UEFA nurture the game all over the EURO, and specific media were invited Champions Gallery for the final in continent. The number of pages to briefings on topics such as anti- Milan, including a VIP inauguration increased more than twofold, from 24 doping and refereeing. with the stellar presence of UEFA to 52, to further engage the readers Champions League winning players. and keep them up to date with the Records fell to justify the hard yards The club finals brought coverage of work done by UEFA and, in particular, put in. UEFA digital platforms events focusing on grassroots football its member associations.

REPORT OF THE UEFA ADMINISTRATION 2015/16 81 Getty Images

A new project made an encouraging The team secured official ambassadors Key progress was made in internal debut – the Media Outreach for the club finals – and communications, thanks to the Programme, which aims to develop (UEFA Champions continued success of the Time Out common communications strategies League, Milan) and Alex Frei (UEFA staff meeting, giving UEFA’s staff a with national associations, through a Europa League, Basel) – and organised broad insight into events and series of workshops in various regions several star turns for UEFA Champions developments within the organisation. to share communications content League trophy tour stages in Europe, The quarterly digital staff magazine and resources, empower the local South-East Asia and Brazil. Other proved to be a ’must-read’ around correspondents and encourage ambassadors supported activities UEFA’s campus, with its engaging mix proactive media relations policies. around the UEFA Champions League of text and photos putting the A successful pilot event took place in final in Milan, and numerous stars – spotlight on staff members, reviews of Montenegro in April 2016. including prominent women’s players social events and reports from the for the first time – participated in the various divisions and units. Finally, a The football relations team helped Ultimate Champions match on the eve new-look intranet was launched as an UEFA convey messages across various of the final. Milan great additional source of information and communication platforms, deploying and Inter legend Javier Zanetti also news – the new format and usability high-profile ambassadors and high- graced the final’s opening ceremony. of the tool giving a fresh dimension to lighting UEFA’s rich heritage through a how UEFA keeps its staff in touch with series of initiatives. In Monaco, at the Every EURO 2016 match was attended its daily life. 2015/16 UEFA Champions League by an ambassador, who presented the group stage draw, the team organised man of the match award and assisted past players from FC Barcelona to in promotional activities, while Spain conduct the ceremony in honour of star Xavi Hernández was recruited for the club winning a ’badge of honour’ the closing ceremony, bringing the after clinching their fifth European trophy he won in 2008 and 2012 onto Cup. Arrangements were also made the pitch ahead of the final. for the UEFA Best Player in Europe nominees.

82 Legal and financial issues

Legal egal support was provided in a strategic plan for EURO 2020. The club application for membership and L variety of areas in 2015/16, with competitions agenda also included beyond. UEFA also assisted in EURO 2016 and FIFA matters dominat- extensive agreements and guarantees mediating between the football ing the daily business, but both pre- for the 2016 finals, the 2016/17 associations of Israel and Palestine and senting a positive outlook as the admissions process, and 2015–18 monitored developments in Crimea. period drew to a close. sponsorship and media sales. Cases against UEFA’s financial fair play For EURO 2016, taxation, visa and On the FIFA front, the creation of the rules and the prohibition of third- customs procedures, and regulations FIFA Reform Committee enabled the party ownership also occupied the on online betting and alcohol legal director and the general legal team throughout the year, as did advertising kept the team occupied secretary to help shape the new FIFA a complaint filed by FIFPro with the throughout, but the necessary Statutes and the reform proposals European Commission against the agreements were reached and passed by the FIFA Congress in international transfer system and plans successfully implemented. The EURO February 2016. UEFA also provided for a European digital single market, 2016 commercial programme was also input into FIFA’s electoral and with the legal division working very successfully delivered, protected and governance regulations, while closely with various EU counterparts to enforced, the Control, Ethics and managing amendments to the UEFA defend the interests of UEFA and its Disciplinary Body met each day to Statutes and Organisational member associations. assess disciplinary incidents and the Regulations. integrity team was happy to report no match-fixing concerns at any of the 51 Meanwhile, extensive support was matches. provided to current and prospective UEFA member associations, in Looking further ahead, the legal team particular the Hellenic Football was heavily involved in preparations Federation in the face of government for national team football in the interference, and the Football 2018–22 period and the 2018–21 club Federation of Kosovo, which the legal competitions cycle, not to mention the team accompanied throughout its

Finance URO 2016 was obviously the main exchange market remaining volatile, €411.1m in the 2015/16 Europa League. E revenue driver in 2015/16, passing although the strength of the dollar Other notable outflows included the the €1.9bn mark – a 38% increase on against the euro and the weakening of distribution of €301m to the EURO 2012. The new club competitions the Swiss franc both worked in UEFA’s associations involved in EURO 2016, cycle and the European Qualifiers also favour. While the governing body’s and €150m put aside for players’ contributed to a substantial increase in investment strategy remained release for the tournament. revenue, 75% of which would be conservative, its financial assets stayed returned directly to football over the strong and stood at €2.25bn at the Much more detailed information is coming three years. end of June 2016, compared with available in the 2015/16 financial €1.74bn a year previously. report. As in the previous year, the situation on the financial markets was very UEFA’s healthy finances enabled a total difficult, with interest rates continuing of €1.345bn to be distributed to clubs their downward trend and the foreign in the 2015/16 Champions League and

REPORT OF THE UEFA ADMINISTRATION 2015/16 83 Office administration

he reporting period heralded an of the ten venues. Away from the were booked through UEFA’s T important new departure for the EURO, a digital photo library was dedicated travel office, and judicious services division with the launch of the opened to staff, and virtual meeting forward planning meant that UEFA People campaign delivered by rooms put into operation. ICT also accommodation arrangements had the HR unit. The campaign aims to offered innovation at the Champions already been put in place at an early increase awareness of the UEFA as an Festival in Milan – several giant touch stage for 2016/17 events, tournaments employer across Europe, and show- screens enabled visitors to discover and finals. cases UEFA’s staff, their duties and information about the festival in inter- their experiences in the organisation. active form. UEFA’s rich history, which now Over the next four years, the project encompasses more than six decades, is will guide UEFA’s recruitment Facility management undertook being put into digital form, and the strategies with the aim of engaging comprehensive maintenance work process of digitising UEFA’s historical staff with the appropriate skills. around the UEFA campus in Nyon. A archives – minutes, reports and new conference room was also documents reaching back to UEFA’s A total of 115 people joined UEFA’s installed at Colovray Stadium, to be birth in 1954 – made healthy progress. staff in 2015, with the large majority used by the UEFA Centre of Refereeing A project to establish an electronic taking up positions linked to EURO Excellence (CORE). After a stringent records management system was 2016. Staff were offered various audit, security measures were launched and developed with the ICT professional opportunities, including reinforced for events at UEFA’s head- team, guidelines were introduced for the chance to take on a second role quarters. At EURO 2016, the team was the use of the UEFA archives by non- and expand their professional heavily involved in the official EURO UEFA users, and the revision of UEFA’s experience. Health was on the agenda dinner, as well as in the final medal archive management policy began in for World Heart Day in September ceremony, and key logistical collaboration with UEFA’s legal 2015, when a heart check was offered contributions ensured the smooth services. With the need for efficient to employees, and human resources running of the UEFA Congresses in organisation evident in such work, also managed a pre-EURO medical Zurich and Budapest. archiving rules were put in place for check for all UEFA staff who would be specific types of document (including working in France. By June 2016, 574 A European body such as UEFA needs documents related to club monitoring, permanent and fixed-term staff of 37 an efficient language and translation the Club Financial Control Body, different nationalities – administrators, service, which presents regular admissions to club competitions and assistants, coordinators, lawyers, media statistics to highlight the work under- club licensing). and ICT specialists and translators, to taken. The volume handled during name but a few – were employed at every quarter of 2015/16 approached UEFA’s administrative campus. or passed the million word mark, the majority of which was handled in- On the ICT front, EURO 2016 presented house – including reports, regulations, a major security challenge and was minutes, publications and other marked by the implementation, in documents. The travel, accommodation conjunction with EURO 2016 SAS and and conferences team catered for the the French authorities, of a compre- requirements of UEFA staff and hensive cybersecurity system offering officials, partners and guests in a what turned out to be effective and review period marked by EURO 2016 – successful protection to UEFA’s both the tournament and the final information systems. In addition, the draw – the UEFA Futsal EURO and two ICT team delivered all tournament- UEFA Congresses, in addition to club related mobile apps and mobile games competition finals and other events. and offered constant support at each Thousands of flights and hotel rooms

84 UEFA Events SA – marketing

n exciting and fulfilling year in Spotify worldwide. The song’s official programme, which gave marketing A UEFA marketing activities fea- video had over 100 million views on support to over 20 national associa- tured high-quality performance across YouTube soon after the tournament. tions during the period under review. a variety of platforms, notably at EURO 2016 and the major club compe- A wide range of marketing and related The 2015–18 club competition tition finals. activities took place around European sponsorship and licensing programme club football’s 2016 premium events, went into full swing, with workshops The EURO sponsorship programme the UEFA Champions League and UEFA at the Monaco season kick-off events. involved ten global sponsors and six Europa League finals. UEFA linked up New digital initiatives were launched national sponsors, and positive with sponsorship partners to present on mobile and social media, and a plan sponsor feedback proved its success – an impressive set of programmes, was set in motion to restructure the with strong broadcast and digital initiatives and events that gave the use of music for UEFA competitions, numbers and on-site delivery amid a finals in Milan and Basel a unique with the leading club and national challenging environment in France. flavour, and provided fans with plenty team competitions to use specific Turkish Airlines became the first-ever to enjoy. Before the finals, the music, and the UEFA Women’s sponsors in the airline category, and Champions League trophy tour visited Champions League to have a more Hisense were the first sponsors from Laos, Myanmar, Sao Paolo and South bespoke theme inspired by the world- China. Excellent national promotion and North Vietnam, connecting with famous UEFA Champions League programmes, in which key French fans eager to get close to the iconic music. partners were major contributors, silverware, with trophy displays, photo complemented the global activities. opportunities and media activities Media rights deals finalised across the featuring prominent ambassadors. UEFA competitions indicated the good Around 50 licensees were contracted health of European football’s for EURO 2016. A broad merchandising On-site merchandising programmes at broadcast landscape. Media rights network operated across all stadiums the club competition finals gave the were made available for the UEFA and fan zones, with Relay stores and public the chance to gather a host of Youth League’s early stages for the pop-up stores providing retail outlets souvenirs. The promotional activities first time, and digital channels were within all major transport hubs. A for the Champions League final used to give added exposure to the Panini sticker collection was launched included five short videos about UEFA competition. Discussions on club media ahead of the tournament, and the Champions League stars, with films on rights and social media took place with EURO 2016 edition of Pro-Evolution the fans and players released on UEFA experienced UEFA Champions League Soccer (PES) was made available to channels. UEFA and partner-led social clubs as part of preparations for download for existing PES owners. media promotion saw 13 fans win a 2016/17. The sales process got under- front-row seat with Dutch star Edgar way for national team football beyond A free concert under the iconic Eiffel Davids for the UEFA Champions League EURO 2016, with preparations for the Tower in Paris – attracting 100,000 final, and 72 UEFA, broadcaster and second cycle of European Qualifiers, fans – was staged on the eve of the sponsor fan winners travelled to Milan this time for the 2018 FIFA World Cup. tournament. The official song, This and Basel to watch the respective Early contracts were signed for EURO One’s for You, written by UEFA’s finals, before taking part the next day 2020, and this long-term vision was official EURO 2016 music ambassador, in fan matches in the same stadiums. underlined by the opening of the sales David Guetta, caught the imagination process for the 2018– 22 national team worldwide, and special performances Simultaneously, resources were being football period. graced both the opening and closing invested in developing the game, with ceremonies. The song was released a the successful delivery of a KISS month before the EURO and reached marketing community workshop in No 1 in 15 countries worldwide, while Istanbul, and continued progress in garnering 100 million streams through the roll-out of the UEFA GROW

REPORT OF THE UEFA ADMINISTRATION 2015/16 85 TV production he TV production unit’s major focus provided at various events. Club T during the review period was obvi- competition requirements included ously set on EURO 2016, but other activ- matchday promotions, 32 UEFA ities across the board also kept the team Champions League club city profiles, fully occupied during a busy and hectic a series of 32 magazine shows for the year. With EURO on the horizon, work- Champions League and a new 12- shops were completed for broadcast magazine show for the UEFA Europa venue engineering, production teams League, and various inserts for draws. and venue operations, and TV directors Next generation services were also conducted site visits in readiness for the launched in partnership with Deltatre tournament. Construction of the to deliver multi-angle clips and live international broadcast centre (IBC) and match streaming camera selections for host broadcast venue passed smoothly UEFA Champions League and UEFA to ensure that the best possible services Europa League matches. A new host would be provided to the global broadcasting package was introduced audience for the tournament. The for the UEFA Youth League, which saw figures provided elsewhere in this four matches broadcast each match- report bear impressive witness to the week, with live signals provided to success of the TV production operations broadcasters, UEFA.com and the UEFA. in France. tv YouTube channel.

Additional EURO programming was also In addition to a variety of internal delivered in the run-up to the projects and supplying video for UEFA’s tournament, including 12 editions of digital platforms, coverage and video the magazine show syndicated and news releases were put together to produced for broadcasters. Filming of assist the communication of significant host cities was completed, including a events, including Executive Committee series of helicopter shots to give meetings and the UEFA Congresses in spectacular aerial views. Earlier in the Zurich and Budapest. The game’s stars review period, the climax to the gave of their time to enhance coverage. European Qualifiers for EURO 2016 had For instance, interviews with football been handled smoothly, with matchday legends , Eric support in eight territories for the last Abidal, , Frank Leboeuf and two group stage matchdays and the were shot and edited play-offs, and the organisation and for promotional content for various delivery of live and promotional UEFA competitions. coverage of the final draw from Paris in December 2015. A new set of European Such an impressive volume of output Qualifiers, this time for the 2018 FIFA also included delivery of material for World Cup, will see UEFA again deliver the UEFA Legacy video library, host broadcasting or host broadcasting providing an outstanding historical support in numerous territories. record of matches throughout the European competitions. By way of Attention not only centred on the example, during the period between summer of 2016 – plenty of content was April and July 2016, over 30,000 clips produced to cover, highlight and were delivered and over 1,000 hours promote UEFA’s various competitions, of material ingested into the Legacy

with host broadcasting support library. UEFA

86 REPORT OF THE UEFA ADMINISTRATION 2015/16 87 88 UEFA UEFA Events SA – Operations

UEFA EURO 2016 our years of planning, preparation ministry and the FFF, among others. the 24 participating associations, and F and implementation; a two-month The meetings were organised to allow one for the general public. Users advance set-up phase; a one-month attendance on-site in Paris and experienced no waiting time, and actual set-up phase; one month of remotely through video conferencing. several multi-target campaigns were operations and seven days of The tournament operations group also activated on social media to promote dismantling and handing back of the generated over 4 million notifications sales across the countries involved, stadiums – all broken down into a total for spectators sent through the UEFA together with email campaigns to of 39 projects, 10 managed by EURO Fan Guide mobile app, providing promote both ticketing and corporate 2016 SAS and 29 by UEFA’s operations updates on weather conditions, public hospitality. The last-minute ticket sales division. EURO 2016 was a massive transport and stadium opening times. from 26 April to the end of the undertaking that required dedication, tournament saw 246,791 tickets sold meticulous planning, and maximum The venue operations team, for its across all matches. Some 2.4 million performance on various levels. part, focused on equipping venue tickets and vouchers were produced, teams with the processes to make on- 426,000 shipments were made, and The increased field of 24 teams and 51 site operations as smooth as possible, 437,000 tickets were distributed from matches around France brought special and leadership training was given to ticket collection and voucher exchange logistical responsibilities in specific venue managers to enable them to get points during the tournament. areas. Firstly, the main actors the best from their venue teams. themselves, the teams: around 500 Before the tournament, table-top No praise is too high for the team of training sessions had to be managed, exercises brought all venue teams 6,500 volunteers in 17 domains who including 30 in public, and hundreds of together for two days of simulations shared in the EURO 2016 experience team movements needed to be of specific tournament situations. over 42,597 shifts. The recruitment secured. From a security point of view, Around a week before the tournament campaign, carried out in close this represented a particular challenge got under way, on-site simulations cooperation with the FFF and the because of the situation in France were staged at the ten stadiums, Association Volontaires 2016, was a following the tragic events several serving as operational readiness resounding success, with volunteers months beforehand. Detailed security exercises for venue project managers providing a devoted, professional plans had been put together before with their local venue management ’service with a smile’. They took part in the tournament, and an internal teams. kick-off events ahead of the EURO to match-by-match risk analysis was learn about their roles, were given conducted with the French interior Building on careful preparation work, comprehensive instructions in 240 ministry after the final draw in solid project management processes training sessions overall, and received December 2015. A security-related and supportive involvement in all a volunteer guide in the form of a memorandum of understanding was functional areas, the EURO 2016 event mobile app to ensure that the also signed by the French interior organisation received ISO 20121 communication flow and access to ministry and the French Football certification after a thorough series of information remained at a consistently Federation (FFF). The preparations audits, testifying to the quality and high level. A total of 22,000 paid off, and the security challenge efficiency of the tournament’s applications were received for the was successfully met in terms of sustainable management system. volunteers programme – 73% from logistics and operations. France – and two big names from Enormous interest from fans was French football, Christian Karembeu Daily operations at the tournament evident in the ticket sales procedure, and Gaëtane Thiney, served as excellent were discussed within the tournament with 11.2 million ticket requests from ambassadors for the programme. operations group, which involved almost 740,000 applicants. Twenty-five around 20 participants, including all different web-based ticket portals The need to make an impact with a the heads of units concerned, and were successfully opened two days strong introduction to each match was representatives of the French interior after the final draw – one for each of the responsibility of the ceremonies

REPORT OF THE UEFA ADMINISTRATION 2015/16 89 team. They delivered a spectacular Pitch quality was a top priority, with Media services and operations ran the ten-minute opening ceremony ten main pitches in the stadiums, as media facilities and services for featuring 600 performers and a flight well as 35 pitches for teams and accredited media across the ten over the Stade de France by the referees. The pitches in the stadiums in stadiums and contributed to services at precision aerobatic demonstration Lille, Marseille and Nice had to be the international broadcast centre team of the French air force. The replaced by the operators ahead of the (IBC) in Paris. The high-quality media tournament ended with a seven- tournament, and a further pitch facilities received excellent feedback minute closing ceremony involving 750 replacement was performed in Lille from media representatives – in performers, and the cup ceremony to before the quarter-final there. The particular the media information crown Portugal as new European goal-line technology introduced for system (MIS), which provided a wealth champions. Throughout the EURO 2016 was implemented with the of tournament information, live tournament, five-minute pre-match TV operations team for all 51 matches. streams of press conferences, and ceremonies with 160 local performers downloadable video files. In total, sat alongside FANtertainment Team services delivered a fully 2,716 media representatives were programmes at each match. More than customised, high-level logistics service accredited, 18,935 individual bookings 7,000 youngsters applied to take part for the 24 participating teams, while were managed, 257 official press in the ceremonies in the ten host team liaison officers, chosen either conferences were delivered, and more cities. with the associations or by UEFA, than 2,500 post-match interviews were performed to the required high conducted. Turning to accreditation activities, the standard. Another sustainability accreditation team delivered 71,221 success at team service level saw all 24 Technical services offered outstanding personalised and 8,369 standard teams supporting UEFA’s carbon offset support, supplying, implementing and accreditations. Around 110,000 people programme by offsetting the carbon successfully operating additional were granted access for working emissions generated by team travel power and back-up systems, fresh and purposes from the set-up period until (bus, train and plane). waste water systems and temperature the dismantling phase, and some control mainly for hospitality facilities 12,500 accreditations were issued for The transport statistics speak for them- and TV/host broadcasting. Sound the final. Eleven accreditation centres selves: 920 Hyundai, Kia and Europcar systems were fully upgraded at four were operated for 71 consecutive days vehicles, 114 buses, 320 professional car stadiums, and partially upgraded at by 45 staff, who were given sterling drivers, 130 bus drivers, 479 parking the six others. Some 700 additional support by 650 volunteers. stewards, and 555 volunteers, the latter UEFA TV sets were installed to run multi- working mainly as drivers. A total of channel IPTV inside and outside VIP Pre-tournament events managed by 11,267 transfers were recorded and 133 and hospitality areas, while 73 the division included the opening official locations served. The workload additional camera platforms, 39 dinner in Paris before the opening was high and hectic, given the increase temporary studios, 10 announcer match. The dinner brought together to 24 teams and ten host cities, but the platforms and 1,700 media desks were the European football family, sponsors project proved one of the multitude of set up at the ten venues. Sustainability and partners, the French government EURO 2016 success stories. rules led to the collection and disposal and host city officials. of about 570 tonnes of waste.

In line with UEFA’s mission to contribute to sport’s overall development, various sports organisations were also given an invaluable insight into the running of a major tournament

90 UEFA

The venue management team was were redistributed to the charity organisations. They were integrated responsible for the important final set- Banque Alimentaire in a significant into EURO 2016 project teams in up phase at the ten EURO 2016 action underlining UEFA’s responsible several roles across tournament stadiums across France, with between approach to sustainability at the venues. A shadowing programme 70 and 85 venue staff deployed on-site tournament. allowed 13 international participants at each stadium throughout the to join venue teams for two matchdays tournament. To complete the successful Based on UEFA’s mission to contribute in Bordeaux and Toulouse. operations, all stadiums were handed to sport’s overall development, various back to their owners in accordance with sports organisations were also given agreed timelines. The administration an invaluable insight into the running unit of EURO 2016 SAS performed an of a major tournament. The project ’admin tour’ after the last matchday at coordination team ran observer each stadium, to ensure fast and programmes in Lyon, Paris and Saint- accurate closing of the venues from an Denis, with the participation of administrative point of view. around 180 representatives of various sports bodies, including members of Statistics from the revenue operations the 2018 and 2022 World Cup local unit show that hospitality programmes organising committees, as well as were delivered for 59,642 corporate Asian Football Confederation (AFC) hospitality guests, 32,465 sponsor and Rugby World Cup delegates. A guests and 17,619 VIP guests. In secondment programme involved 23 addition, some 41,500 sandwiches international participants from sports

REPORT OF THE UEFA ADMINISTRATION 2015/16 91 UEFA

Club finals, national team competitions and other events rogress towards the 2016 club League and Europa League finals – 720 volunteers, in total who made a P competition finals was smooth, coordination of finalist media open crucial contribution to the smooth with site visits to Milan (UEFA days for broadcaster services, the running of operations at both venues. Champions League), Basel (UEFA management and implementation of Europa League), Trondheim (UEFA TV unilateral operations and rights The 2016 Champions Festival in and Super Cup), Reggio Emila (UEFA delivery to sponsors, and support for around Milan’s Piazza Duomo proved Women’s Champions League) and various projects, such as VIP services, to be a great attraction. A new record Guadalajara (UEFA Futsal Cup). In par- accreditations and venue of 420,000 visitors was set, in spite of ticular, the important steps towards management. heavy rain on the Sunday ahead of the the UEFA Champions League final in final, and artists, bands and other Milan were gradually defined during In addition to the action on the field, performers helped create a festive site visits centring on stadium facilities, two official dinners marked the major atmosphere. Additionally, the location access management, city locations club competition finals in May – at La of the trophy for fan viewing at the related to the major showpiece occa- Scala in Milan and the Pantheon in Piazza Duomo proved extremely sion, and stadium renovation plans. Basel, and the considerable efforts of popular, with the iconic Duomo UEFA units and the LOCs helped make providing an imposing backdrop. The commercial operations unit both occasions, and the matches successfully delivered the entire themselves, resounding successes. package required for the Champions These successes were shared by

92 The impact of city dressing for the delivery to distant eastern and in Belarus in May 2016 provided a Europa League final in Basel was southern European venues would be record attendance of 10,200 for the considerable, with flags and a giant on time. final between Spain and Germany at trophy on show in the Swiss city. The the Borisov-Arena. Another record neutral fan zone was a magnet for Great local support and interest, as was broken at the European Under-17 fans – attendances topped 7,000 on well as sterling volunteer support from Championship final round in May 2016, the day before the final, and over UEFA staff, marked the UEFA Youth when a remarkable 33,000 spectators 15,000 on the matchday itself. League finals in Nyon in April, with the watched the opening match between final attracting a capacity crowd of hosts Azerbaijan and Portugal. Meanwhile, the Women’s Champion 4,000. All four matches at the UEFA League final in Reggio Emilia, Italy, Futsal Cup finals in Guadalajara, Spain, Future events already in the planning attracted 15,117 spectators, justifying were sold out, rewarding successful and preparation stage at the end of UEFA’s judicious ticket pricing policy, project management by the events the reporting period included the and was notable for 200 guests centre and the competitions division, Monaco season kick-off events in late travelling from Milan by train to watch with the help of TV production, media August, the Extraordinary UEFA Olympique Lyonnais take the crown. operations, logistics operations, ICT, Congress due to take place in Athens Intelligent promotion and communications and marketing. in mid-September 2016, and the communication around the event unveiling of the visual identity of UEFA created strong interest in the occasion, Among the national team competi- EURO 2020 and various host city logos especially thanks to the launching of a tions, UEFA Futsal EURO 2016 in Serbia from September onwards. dedicated final website by the local was notable for contributing to UEFA’s organising committee. social responsibility initiatives, with a Za’atari refugee camp exhibition With the 2016/17 season in mind, a staged at the Arena of Belgrade. series of Champions League, Europa Operational organisation of both the League and European Qualifiers site final draw and the tournament itself visits were completed. In cooperation was given widespread praise, and the with colleagues from the competitions local organising committee’s active division, site visit workshops were held promotion of the finals provided in Nyon for seven clubs (Arsenal FC, important additional exposure on a Club Atlético de Madrid, FC Barcelona, variety of levels. Excellent services FC Bayern München, FC Dynamo Kyiv, were offered at the Belgrade venue, Real Madrid CF and Sevilla FC). which added to the overall positive atmosphere generated by the event. The logistics operations unit also had forward planning in mind – for the The devoted operations work put in 2016/17 Champions League play-offs, to prepare final rounds across Europe for example, some trucks were already was rewarded by some remarkable loaded with match material some figures. The European Women’s weeks in advance to ensure that Under-17 Championship final round

Among the national team competitions, UEFA Futsal EURO 2016 in Serbia was notable for contributing to UEFA’s social responsibility initiatives, with a Za’atari refugee camp exhibition staged at the Arena of Belgrade

REPORT OF THE UEFA ADMINISTRATION 2015/16 93 Turning to tomorrow

EFA’s year has been a challenging Uone – but European football’s gov- erning body can take considerable sat- isfaction in having met a delicate situation with courage, calmness and immense professionalism, ensuring as a result that daily work, decisions, strate- gies, plans, policies and visions would not be affected in a serious way.

Tireless work was done by many people to preserve and promote the essential values that underpin UEFA’s mission. We nurtured and protected football on this continent in all of its myriad facets. UEFA has had to set the best possible example by constantly showing honesty, openness and transparency, and doing its utmost to keep the European football family united and focused in a spirit of genuine solidarity.

We have been deeply committed to maintaining stability and continuity over a period in which UEFA was shaken and saddened by events and decisions, but neither faltered nor lost sight of its objectives.

Looking forward, Aleksander Čeferin would be elected as the seventh UEFA president in September 2016. This was certain to be a pivotal moment, in that the organisation would be turning immediately towards a new tomorrow. Everyone wishes the UEFA president every success as he shapes the future. UEFA remains firm in its fundamental belief that, in all of our actions, the game of football that we all love must always come first.

94 UEFA REPORT OF THE UEFA ADMINISTRATION 2015/16 95 96 Sportsfile Setting: Large Network, Geneva. Printing: Artgraphic Cavin, Grandson, Switzerland UEFA Route de Genève 46 CH-1260 Nyon 2 Switzerland Telephone: +41 848 00 27 27 Telefax: +41 848 01 27 27