ANALYSIS OF THE ARBITRAL TRIBUNAL'S AWARD FOLLOWING THE MANCHESTER CITY FOOTBALL CLUB LIMITED LEGAL CHALLENGE TO THE PREMIER LEAGUE ON THE ASSOCIATED PARTY TRANSACTION (APT) RULES

Abstract

        This paper focuses on the types of commercial deals between professional football clubs and associated parties are unfair market value, by analysing the viewpoint of the Arbitral Tribunal's Award following the Manchester City Football Club Limited legal challenge to the Premier League on the Premier League’s Associated Party Transaction (APT) rules. This paper reveals that when legal problems occur in this case, the Manchester City Football Club Limited require and expect an immediate accessible and responsive arbitration tribunal procedure from all relevant parties. This suggests that non-litigation to seek dispute resolution through arbitration is practical and not an unfavourable option for Manchester City Football Club Limited. This paper connects developments to broader debates about the nature of the ATP rules, and mainly compares relevant legal aspects of the English law and procedural fairness although other key elements of Premier League’s ruling are discussed. This paper also suggests that public hearing might be able to benefit decision-makers and all relevant stakeholders of the Premier League by providing a forum for members to share their opinions and concerns.