CAS Rules in Favor of Brann in 'UEFA Mafia' Free Speech Case

The court overturned UEFA fines, emphasizing the need to align disciplinary regulations with fundamental human rights and evaluate context in fan expressions.

• The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) ruled that UEFA's fines against Norwegian club Brann for fans chanting 'UEFA Mafia' were unjustified.
• CAS emphasized that UEFA's disciplinary rules must align with human rights, including freedom of expression, and that context must be considered in such cases.
• The court determined that the chant 'UEFA Mafia' cannot always be deemed offensive or provocative, shifting the burden of proof to UEFA to demonstrate otherwise.
• Brann's chairman, Aslak Sverdrup, hailed the ruling as a significant victory for freedom of expression in sports, particularly in a climate of increasing restrictions.
• The written reasons for the CAS decision are expected to be published soon, while UEFA has yet to comment on the ruling.

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