Overview

• 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.