With over 700 delegates in attendance, the largest gathering in the organisation’s history, the event underscored a renewed sense of unity and a forward-thinking vision for the future. The assembly marked the EFC’s impressive growth to over 800 member clubs from 55 countries and territories, signalling a powerful, collective voice for clubs across the continent. Key developments included the welcome return of FC Barcelona to the fold, the launch of an innovation hub, and a new commercial strategy for UEFA’s club competitions, all pointing towards a more collaborative and progressive future.

A Fresh Identity and a Family Reunited

One of the cornerstones of the Rome assembly was the organisations rebrand to European Football Clubs (EFC). This change, more than just cosmetic, was designed to reflect its evolution into a “modern, football-first body putting clubs at the heart of the game”. The new name and logo firmly place football at the centre of its mission, a point emphasised by EFC Chairman Nasser Al-Khelaifi.

“We shouldn’t be afraid of change,” Al-Khelaifi stated. “Football is now in the middle of our name and our logo, but we are doing more than just changing the name and the brand. Football is what we love and what we do every day. We will never stop working for the collective interests of all our members, and the development of club football as a whole”.

This spirit of unity was powerfully demonstrated by the attendance of FC Barcelona for the first time in four years. The club was warmly welcomed back into the EFC family, participating in “positive and constructive discussions” with the leadership and other clubs. Al-Khelaifi addressed their return with a message of reconciliation and mutual respect, highlighting the importance of collaboration for the greater good of the sport.

“Sometimes friends can disagree, that is normal. But they always come back together for the greater good,” he remarked. “[Joan Laporta] has brought [Barcelona] back to life, both on the pitch with an amazing young team, and off the pitch with an amazing new stadium. Please join me in welcoming him back to the family”.

Driving Innovation and Commercial Growth

Looking to the future, the EFC announced the creation of the EFC Centre of Innovation, a new think-tank aimed at benefiting all clubs and the wider football ecosystem. This initiative will bring together experts to develop football-focused ideas and products, from AI-driven fan engagement to advanced technology designed to prevent player injuries and boost performance.

On the commercial front, significant progress was made by UC3, the joint venture between the EFC and UEFA that co-manages the commercial rights for UEFA’s men’s and women’s club competitions. During the assembly, UC3 approved its commercial strategy for the crucial 2027-2033 cycle of UEFA Men’s Club Competitions.

The venture is set to introduce an innovative media, sponsorship, and licensing strategy aimed at enhancing the value of the UEFA Champions League, Europa League, and Conference League. This forward-planning ensures that the financial health and global appeal of European club competitions continue to grow, with benefits distributed throughout the football pyramid. The EFC’s partnerships with UEFA and FIFA already secure record solidarity payments, including €240 million for clubs at EURO 2024 and $355 million for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Championing Sustainability Across Europe

Perhaps the most significant long-term initiative announced is the joint Sustainability Cooperation Plan between UEFA and the EFC. Launched on 15th October 2025, this two-season plan (covering 2025/26 and 2026/27) firmly places social and environmental sustainability (SES) at the heart of European club football. The strategy treats sustainability not as a cost but as a strategic investment that protects and generates long-term value for the entire club ecosystem.

The plan involves direct collaboration with clubs to develop tailored sustainability strategies that are suited to specific national contexts. This will be achieved through three-way cooperation with national associations and domestic leagues, building on lessons from successful pilot projects in countries like Italy, the Netherlands, and Austria. A key goal is to expand the network of dedicated sustainability managers across Europe to drive these changes on the ground.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino, speaking at the assembly, praised the influential role of European clubs.

“Everywhere in the world there is football. Everywhere in the world they look at European football clubs. You are an example for the entire world. We stick together, we work together, we are united”.

Putting Plans into Action: Licensing and Education

To ensure these sustainability goals are met, the plan is backed by practical measures, with club licensing serving as a key driver. UEFA’s upgraded licensing provisions now encourage clubs to appoint dedicated social and environmental sustainability officers and create strategic frameworks for their initiatives. Clubs are also prompted to implement clear policies covering crucial topics such as equality, anti-racism, child protection, and environmental protection.

To support clubs on this journey, a comprehensive educational framework has been established. UEFA and the EFC have launched a compact SES course in partnership with the prestigious UEFA Academy, EFC Campus, and Bocconi University. This Sustainability in Football Compact Course (SFC) aims to equip club personnel with the essential knowledge and practical tools needed to drive sustainability within their organisations. This is supplemented by joint webinars and a concerted effort to improve SES performance data for better transparency and reporting.

This collaborative approach was lauded by Roberto Gualtieri, the Mayor of Rome, who hosted the event.

“It is particularly fitting that the official launch of this new phase for European Football Clubs is taking place here in Rome, a city which has long been a symbol of dialogue and hospitality,” he said. “This is a new season of innovation, inclusion and growth for football”.

With new board members elected to guide its strategic priorities, a clear vision for innovation, and a groundbreaking commitment to sustainability, the EFC has set a bold new course for European football, one defined by unity, responsibility, and a shared passion for the game.