Roma and Everton could face a serious regulatory issue in Europe. The cause?
Both clubs are owned by the same individual, Dan Friedkin, and UEFA is adamant about multiple ownership: clubs with the same owner cannot participate in the same European competition in the same season.
The situation could become concrete at the end of the season, based on their current league standings.
Roma, currently sixth, is fighting for a Champions League spot, while Everton is eighth, in the Conference League zone, but with ambitions of reaching the Europa League.
If both clubs were to qualify for the same competition, La Repubblica reports, one of them would be relegated to the lower cup.
This scenario is attracting the attention of the UEFA offices in Nyon, where the Friedkin case is under close scrutiny. Although UEFA does not outright prohibit two clubs with the same ownership from participating in European competitions in the same season, there is one important requirement: the two clubs must not meet.
A precedent dates back to 2024, when UEFA granted Girona the right to participate in the Champions League after the Spanish club’s ownership was transferred to independent trustees.
This option could theoretically be a viable option for the Friedkins as well, but to date there are no signs that they have considered it. If the situation were to resolve with both teams qualifying, Everton would prevail, as they are closer to a Europa League spot.
