Source:REUTERS/Chris Radburn
[Saba Sports News] According to British media reports, a number of Swiss cantonal lawmakers have proposed revoking UEFA’s tax exemption status because UEFA has not imposed sanctions on Israel. Several members of the parliament of the Swiss canton of Vaud—where UEFA is registered for tax purposes—have submitted a resolution protesting UEFA’s failure to impose any sporting sanctions on Israel amid the killing of thousands of Palestinians. If the resolution is adopted, UEFA will no longer enjoy tax exemption and stand to lose 30 million euros annually. Lawmakers in Vaud have tabled a resolution entitled Are the Conditions for UEFA’s Tax Exemption Still Met? The issue is due to be placed on the agenda on Tuesday, a development that has sent shockwaves through UEFA—given that the confederation’s tax registration is based precisely in the canton of Vaud. It is fair to say the financial stakes at play are extremely high.
The editor believes that since the outbreak of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in 2023, 420 Palestinian football players have lost their lives. Several Israeli clubs have held matches in the occupied territories, a move that violates international law. Currently, lobbying efforts calling on UEFA to boycott or even expel Israel from international competitions have been escalating. The resolution submitted by these Swiss lawmakers could impose an extremely heavy financial cost on UEFA.