Manchester City and Premier League Reach Agreement on APT Regulations
Manchester City has officially announced a resolution with the Premier League, bringing an end to the dispute concerning the Associated Party Transactions (APT) regulations that govern sponsorship agreements.
Acceptance of APT Rules and Legal Resolution
In their statement, Manchester City acknowledged that the existing APT rules-which oversee commercial deals between clubs and companies linked to their owners when such agreements exceed fair market value-are both valid and binding. Consequently, both parties agreed to discontinue all ongoing legal proceedings related to this matter. It is important to clarify that this settlement does not affect other allegations facing City regarding potential breaches of financial regulations.
Official Club Statement on the Agreement
The club emphasized, “This agreement concludes the dispute surrounding the APT Regulations. Manchester City accepts that the current rules are legitimate and enforceable.”
Background and Evolution of APT Regulations
Introduced in 2021, the APT regulations have undergone two revisions, most recently in March and November 2024. These rules were designed to uphold the financial stability, integrity, and competitive balance within the Premier League. Their primary aim is to prevent clubs from gaining unfair advantages through inflated commercial revenues derived from companies connected to their ownership groups.
Recent Legal Developments and Premier League’s Position
Earlier this year, in February 2025, an independent tribunal ruled that certain aspects of the APT regulations were “unlawful.” Despite this, the Premier League maintained that the ruling did not impact the ongoing enforcement of the current rules. This stance underscores the league’s commitment to preserving fair competition and financial transparency among its clubs.
Looking Ahead: Ensuring Fair Play in Football Finances
As football clubs increasingly engage in complex commercial partnerships, the enforcement of regulations like APT remains crucial. For example, in the 2023-2024 season, Premier League clubs collectively generated over £1.5 billion in sponsorship revenue, highlighting the importance of transparent and fair agreements. Manchester City’s acceptance of the APT rules sets a precedent for other clubs to adhere strictly to these standards, fostering a more equitable competitive environment.