Etihad Airways is weighing legal action against the Premier League following the league’s ruling that Manchester City breached 115 financial regulations.
Etihad plans legal response as Man City appeals 115 charges
The airline, which an Abu Dhabi fund chaired by Sheikh Mansour’s brother owns, announced it is seeking counsel to protect its interests.
The independent commission found that Manchester City deliberately inflated sponsorship values over a decade to bypass financial fair play rules.
These actions allegedly helped transform the club into a modern football powerhouse.
Etihad strongly denies any involvement in improper commercial arrangements. The airline stated it “categorically rejects any finding, conclusion or implication” suggesting unethical conduct.
Furthermore, Etihad condemned the league’s publication of the findings. The airline claims that a “period of selective leaks and reporting” has damaged its reputation, even though the redacted report did not name the carrier.
City CEO Ferran Soriano dismissed the findings as a “Premier League conspiracy theory.” The club plans to appeal the decision.
Etihad Airways suing the Premier League is comedy.
1.Etihad and Man City are owned by the same people. The claim they had no idea about this for eight years is absurd.
2.The Premier League has no duty to produce witnesses for City. That’s City’s problem.
3.Etihad were in court…
— Terry Flewers (@terryflewers) October 1, 2026
Meanwhile, other partners are distancing themselves. Asahi, the Japanese drinks group that partnered with City Football Group in July 2022, told the Press Association it is monitoring the situation.
The company acknowledged awareness of the findings and the pending appeal but declined further comment.
Etihad maintains its support for the club despite the escalating legal battle. The airline insists it remains a committed partner as Manchester City prepares to fight the ruling.
