UEFA announced a settlement of a civil lawsuit filed by a number of Liverpool fans who suffered physical and psychological injuries surrounding the "Stade de France" during the 2022 UEFA Champions League final. UEFA stated that a "full and final settlement" has been agreed upon with the fans represented by two groups of lawyers from the "Bingham LLP" firm in Liverpool and "Bristows" in London. An independent investigation two years ago found that UEFA bore "primary responsibility" for the failures that nearly turned the final match between Liverpool and Real Madrid into a "disaster."
The final, which Real Madrid won to secure their 14th title in the competition, was marred by chaos as English fans struggled to enter the stadium. Fans faced harassment while attempting to enter the venue and were subjected to tear gas by police outside the "Stade de France" in the suburbs of Paris, causing the match start to be delayed by 36 minutes.
In a statement issued by UEFA, it was mentioned that "UEFA took a number of steps following the 2022 final, including implementing recommendations from the independent investigation and establishing a specific plan to refund fans." It added, "All parties agreed to the terms of this statement, but the conditions of the settlement will remain confidential," indicating that officials hope this settlement will "close the file without any acknowledgment of responsibility."
For his part, Gerard Long, managing partner of Bingham LLP, stated, "As a local law firm, it was important for us to be able to inform (the fans) that we resolved the matter without lengthy legal proceedings, and that they will receive some compensation."
