Nasser Al-Khelaïfi at THE FORUM: “Leagues Are Essential and Football Must Move Forward Together”

TL;DR

Nasser Al-Khelaïfi emphasized the need for stability and cooperation in European football at THE FORUM, highlighting the success of the new Champions League format and the importance of national leagues. He called for collaboration over exclusionary models to ensure the growth of football globally.

Key points

Nasser Al-Khelaïfi spoke at THE FORUM about football's future.
He emphasized cooperation and stability in European football.
Al-Khelaïfi praised the new Champions League format as a success.
He highlighted the importance of national leagues in football.
93.5% of football revenue supports clubs, including non-European participants.

Mentioned in this story

Nasser Al-KhelaïfiParis Saint-GermainAtlético de MadridGuillem BalaguéLuis EnriqueLuis Campos

THE FORUM **Nasser Al-Khelaïfi** sent a clear message to European football: the current moment calls for stability, cooperation, and shared growth. He delivered this message at THE FORUM, an exclusive event organized by Atlético de Madrid and Apollo Sports Capital, held at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano, which brought together more than 400 people to analyze the present and future of the industry. In a conversation with **Guillem Balagué**, the president of Paris Saint-Germain and the European Club Association asserted that the ecosystem has emerged stronger after the tensions of recent years: “We must put aside selfishness. We all want what’s best for football.” Regarding the new Champions League format, he was emphatic: “It’s a great success. From the first match to the last, every game counts. It’s the football the fans want.” Al-Khelaïfi highlighted the increased competitiveness, the number of goals, and global interest as indicators of the positive impact of the change. One of the central messages of his speech was the defense of the balance within the football ecosystem: “We don’t want to see clubs separate from their domestic leagues. National leagues are fundamental.” Along these lines, he insisted that the future lies in collaboration, not in exclusionary models: “If we put egos aside and think about the common good, there’s room for everyone to win.” Al-Khelaïfi also emphasized the economic impact of the current system: “93.5% of the revenue goes back to the clubs, even those that don’t participate in European competitions.” He also highlighted the growing internationalization of football: “We want to continue growing in markets like the United States and Asia. European football is becoming increasingly global.” On the sporting front, the president expressed his pride in the team’s current form: “Reaching the Champions League semi-finals with a young squad is something very special.” He also praised the team’s structure: “Bringing **Luis Enrique** and **Luis Campos** on board has been one of the best decisions. Their work goes far beyond just the results.” The leader concluded with a message of consensus and ambition: “European football has emerged stronger. If we work together, the future will be even better for everyone.” THE FORUM is powered by Atlético de Madrid, Riyadh Air, and Apollo Sports Capital. More information at .

Q&A

What did Nasser Al-Khelaïfi say about the new Champions League format?

Nasser Al-Khelaïfi described the new Champions League format as a great success, emphasizing that every match counts and it aligns with what fans want.

Why does Al-Khelaïfi believe national leagues are important?

Al-Khelaïfi stated that national leagues are fundamental and should not be separated from clubs, advocating for a balanced football ecosystem.

What is the economic impact of the current football system according to Al-Khelaïfi?

Al-Khelaïfi noted that 93.5% of the revenue generated goes back to clubs, even those not participating in European competitions, highlighting the system's economic benefits.