Etihad Airways, the principal shirt sponsor and stadium naming partner of Manchester City, announced on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, that it is seeking legal counsel regarding potential action against the Premier League. This development follows a ruling by an independent commission that found Manchester City guilty of serious financial breaches spanning between the 2009/10 and 2017/18 seasons.
- Etihad Categorically Rejects Improper Commercial Arrangements
- Manchester City Response and Wider Fallout
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Why is Etihad Airways considering legal action against the Premier League?
- When did Etihad Airways become associated with Manchester City?
- What did the independent commission rule regarding Manchester City?
- Did the Premier League contact Etihad during the investigation?
- How is Manchester City responding to the independent commission’s verdict?
The independent commission’s published decision concluded that the club utilized disguised funding schemes and sham contracts to artificially inflate its revenues by £830 million. While Etihad Airways was not explicitly named in the redacted published findings, the Abu Dhabi state-owned airline reacted sharply to the public communication surrounding the verdict. It stated that the narrative has created damaging implications for its global brand.
Etihad Categorically Rejects Improper Commercial Arrangements
In an official statement released on Tuesday evening, Etihad Airways defended its longstanding commercial relationship with the football club. This partnership began in 2009 and expanded in 2011 with a 10-year stadium naming rights deal worth £400 million.
Etihad categorically rejects any finding, conclusion or implication that suggests the airline has ever been involved in improper commercial arrangements.
The airline voiced serious concern over transparency and the handling of the investigation. It highlighted that league officials never contacted them during the proceedings.
- Lack of Engagement: Etihad stated that the Premier League never reached out or engaged with the airline throughout the investigation process.
- Denied Representation: The company was never given the opportunity to provide relevant information or ensure data accuracy.
- Public Communication: The airline criticized the selective disclosure of information for creating unfair reputational damage.
Manchester City Response and Wider Fallout
Manchester City has denied all allegations. Chief executive Ferran Soriano addressed players and staff in a video message criticizing the regulatory process. The club maintains that it possesses a comprehensive body of evidence supporting its position and intends to pursue all available appeal avenues.
The independent commission’s verdict has triggered widespread reactions across English football, drawing commentary from stakeholders, fan groups, and political figures. Prime Minister Andy Burnham noted potential community concerns regarding the club’s heavy investment in east Manchester infrastructure. Meanwhile, several commercial partners continue to evaluate their stances as the appeals process unfolds.
Etihad Airways confirmed that its commitment to Manchester City, its supporters, and the shared partnership remains strong as the club challenges the commission’s conclusions through formal regulatory and legal forums.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Etihad Airways considering legal action against the Premier League?
Etihad Airways is considering legal action because the independent commission’s public findings and associated communications created damaging implications for the airline. The findings suggested involvement in inflated sponsorship deals, despite the company never being directly consulted or named in the redacted report.
When did Etihad Airways become associated with Manchester City?
Etihad Airways has been Manchester City’s principal shirt sponsor since 2009. In 2011, the airline also secured a 10-year naming rights agreement for the Etihad Stadium, which was later extended on improved terms in 2021.
What did the independent commission rule regarding Manchester City?
The independent commission found Manchester City guilty of over 100 financial rule breaches between the 2009/10 and 2017/18 seasons. It ruled that the club used disguised funding schemes and sham contracts to artificially inflate revenues by £830 million.
Did the Premier League contact Etihad during the investigation?
According to Etihad Airways’ official statement, the Premier League never reached out to or engaged with the airline during the investigation. This denied them the opportunity to provide information or ensure the accuracy of data relied upon.
How is Manchester City responding to the independent commission’s verdict?
Manchester City has expressed disappointment and surprise at the ruling, maintaining its absolute innocence. The club has announced plans to pursue all available appeal avenues through appropriate legal and regulatory forums.
