UEFA Fines Top Clubs, Threatens Bans for Breaches

UEFA has fined Chelsea, Aston Villa, Barcelona, and Lyon for breaching financial sustainability regulations. Chelsea received an immediate €31 million fine, with a possible additional €60 million penalty if compliance targets are not met in four years, and faces restrictions on registering new players for UEFA competitions. Aston Villa was fined €11 million, with conditional fines potentially reaching €15 million, and both Chelsea and Aston Villa must now comply with squad cost limits relative to revenue. Barcelona and Lyon also received significant fines, with Lyon risking exclusion from European competitions if further breaches or relegation occur. Settlement agreements require all clubs to meet compliance deadlines to avoid additional sanctions, including potential bans from UEFA competitions. These measures underscore UEFA's response to excessive transfer spending and creative financial tactics used by clubs.