Liverpool Fans Win Legal Battle to Pursue UEFA Over 2022 Champions League Final Chaos

Hundreds of Liverpool fans affected by the chaotic scenes at the 2022 Champions League final in Paris will have their legal claims against UEFA heard in England, following a ruling by the High Court.

The case, involving over 800 fans, alleges that UEFA failed to ensure a safe environment outside the Stade de France, where thousands of supporters were trapped in severe congestion, subjected to attacks by local gangs, and forcibly dispersed by police using tear gas and pepper spray.

UEFA had argued that English courts lacked jurisdiction over the matter, citing legal principles that generally prevent English courts from assessing the actions of foreign governments. However, on Friday, Mr. Justice Turner dismissed this argument in a 38-page judgment, allowing the claims to proceed in Liverpool.

The ruling represents a major legal victory for the affected fans, many of whom suffered injuries and psychological trauma due to the events of May 28, 2022. The debacle saw thousands of Liverpool fans penned against perimeter fences and stuck in an underpass before the match against Real Madrid. The match was delayed for over 30 minutes as police attempted to control the situation, ultimately resorting to force against supporters, including families and children.

Following the incident, UEFA and French authorities initially blamed Liverpool supporters, falsely claiming that thousands attempted entry with fake tickets. This narrative drew comparisons to the Hillsborough disaster, where the wrongful blame of fans in 1989 led to a decades-long battle for justice.

An independent report later exonerated the fans and found UEFA bore “primary responsibility” for the failures that nearly resulted in a mass-casualty event. The review cited “poor planning, lack of oversight, and inadequate safety measures” as key factors in the chaos.

UEFA previously reached settlements with some claimants but continues to deny liability in the ongoing case. A spokesperson for the governing body stated that Friday’s ruling does not determine whether UEFA’s legal position is valid and that further arguments will be heard as the case progresses.

Jill Paterson, a lawyer representing the Liverpool fans through Leigh Day law firm, called the ruling a “landmark legal decision,” emphasizing that UEFA must now be held accountable in English courts. “All football fans should be able to attend matches safely,” she said.

Many Liverpool fans remain deeply affected by the traumatic experience in Paris, with some vowing never to attend European away matches again. The ruling allows them to continue their fight for justice, seeking acknowledgment and compensation for the distress they endured.

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