Leandro Shara Threatens UEFA Over New Format

UEFA's introduction of a new 'league phase' format for the Champions League, Europa League, and Europa Conference League has sparked legal controversy. Chilean sports consultant Leandro Shara claims that this format, often referred to as the 'Swiss model,' is a derivative of his own copyrighted design, known as the 'Leandro Shara System,' which he presented to UEFA numerous times since 2013. The revamped structure replaces traditional group stages with a system where each of the 36 teams plays eight matches against different opponents, determined by an algorithm. Shara's cease-and-desist notice demands recognition of his intellectual property and threatens legal action if his terms aren't met. UEFA has dismissed Shara's claims as 'baseless,' emphasizing that the new format aims to modernize competition and increase revenue. The first draw under this new system is scheduled to take place in Monaco amid these ongoing legal disputes.