SK Brann won a pivotal ruling from the Court of Arbitration for Sport, overturning a €5,000 fine imposed by UEFA for fans' chants and banners stating 'UEFA Mafia.' The CAS determined that the club's expression fell under fundamental human rights and could be considered a satirical criticism of UEFA's control. This decision highlighted the increasing challenges to free speech in sports, with Brann's president noting its significance amidst global concerns over freedom of expression. UEFA has disputed the interpretation but acknowledged the CAS verdict, which also mandates them to cover Brann's legal costs.
"We are very pleased with the ruling from CAS. It's not every day a club from Norway moves all of football Europe but today we actually do. In a world where freedom of speech is under attack, this is an important and correct ruling."
"CAS agrees that the use of the term 'UEFA Mafia' must be understood as a reference to UEFA as a closed group of people who exercise significant control over a specific area of society - that is, as a satirical and power-critical statement."
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