“Leicester City Win Appeal Over Premier League PSR Breach; Points Deduction Now Unlikely”
Leicester City has emerged victorious in their appeal against allegations of breaching Premier League Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR). The appeal board’s decision effectively rules out the possibility of a points deduction for the club this season.
The Premier League had alleged that Leicester made losses exceeding the allowed £105 million threshold over three seasons, with the club’s losses totaling £129.4 million. However, Leicester argued that the Premier League lacked jurisdiction as the accounting period in question ended after their relegation to the English Football League (EFL), which meant they were no longer bound by Premier League rules.
The appeal board agreed with Leicester’s argument, stating that the Premier League could only predict a breach rather than definitively prove one since Leicester’s accounting period concluded after they had been relegated. The board’s decision is a significant win for Leicester, affirming their stance that any action against them should comply with the applicable rules.
The Premier League expressed surprise and disappointment at the outcome, stating that the decision effectively limits their ability to enforce PSR rules in such cases. Despite this, they are unlikely to appeal further due to the high legal standards required for such a move.
Leicester City has welcomed the decision, which they believe reinforces their position that the rules should be applied precisely as written. The club’s statement emphasized that the Appeal Board identified flaws in the Premier League’s rules, and Leicester’s challenge was aimed at ensuring fair and consistent application of the rules across all clubs.