Key Takeaways:
- Etihad Airways declared on Wednesday it was seeking legal advice after criticising the Premier League’s handling of an independent commission’s findings regarding Manchester City
- On Tuesday, the Premier League stated Manchester City had “sham” commercial contracts to inflate revenue and understate costs by more than £900 million over nine seasons between 2009 and 2018
- Etihad, City’s principal sponsor since 2009, confirmed its continued support for the club and emphasised its rejection of any involvement in improper commercial arrangements
Etihad Airways Responds to Premier League’s Allegations
Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways, which has been Manchester City’s main sponsor since 2009, released a statement on Wednesday revealing it was seeking legal guidance. The airline expressed dissatisfaction with how the Premier League had communicated the results of an independent commission’s investigation into Manchester City’s finances.
🚨🚨| NEW: Manchester City sponsor Etihad Airways are considering 𝐋𝐄𝐆𝐀𝐋 𝐀𝐂𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 against the Premier League over claims it was at the centre of "sham" sponsorship deals. ⚖️🏴
The possibility of legal action is being explored following the verdict in the case.… pic.twitter.com/RiLrPArj2W
— CentreGoals. (@centregoals) September 30, 2026
According to Etihad, the airline was not approached or consulted during the commission’s process, nor was it given a chance to review or challenge details that may have adversely implicated the company. The airline stated: “Etihad is deeply concerned by the way this matter has been communicated publicly. The lack of clarity and transparency, together with the selective disclosure of information, has created damaging implications for Etihad despite the airline not being named in the published decision.”
Premier League Accusations and Timeline of Events
The Premier League, in a statement issued on Tuesday, asserted that Manchester City utilised “sham” commercial contracts from 2009 to 2018 in order to artificially increase revenue and understate expenses by more than £900 million ($1.2 billion).
Manchester City were found guilty by the Premier League on September 29th of all charges connected to severe breaches of the league’s financial regulations over the period from 2009 to 2018. The majority of charges related to non-cooperation with the investigation were also upheld. The club was originally charged in February 2023, following a four-year probe. Manchester City have consistently denied any wrongdoing and stated their intent to appeal the decision.
Etihad’s Stance and Next Steps
Etihad Airways continues to distance itself from any suggestion of participating in improper commercial practices. The airline strongly rejected “any finding, conclusion or implication” of wrongdoing. Etihad also criticised the Premier League for what it described as selective leaks and reporting, claiming such communication has been detrimental to its reputation.
While maintaining loyalty to Manchester City and its partnership, Etihad confirmed it is seeking legal counsel regarding potential ways to defend its interests. The airline added: “We stand with the club, its supporters and our wider Etihad community as Manchester City challenges the commission’s conclusions through the processes available to it.”
The Premier League has declined to comment further on Etihad’s statement.
