Etihad Airways weighs legal action after Manchester City financial verdict

The airline rejects any implication of wrongdoing and says the Premier League’s communication has damaged its reputation.

By Felo News Desk · Published Thu, 01 Oct 2026 08:06:43 GMT

Etihad Airways, Manchester City’s principal sponsor since 2009, said on 1 October it is considering legal action against the Premier League after an independent commission found the club guilty of 114 of 115 financial rule breaches.

What happened

The independent commission’s verdict, released earlier this week, concluded that Manchester City had used sham contracts with commercial partners between 2009 and 2018, inflating revenues by up to £830 million. The findings relate to 114 of the 115 charges brought against the club in 2023. Etihad Airways was not named in the redacted report but said the Premier League’s public communication created “damaging implications” for the airline.

What the reports add

According to the Independent, Etihad “categorically rejects any finding, conclusion or implication that suggests the airline has ever been involved in improper commercial arrangements” and is now weighing legal options to protect its interests. The Standard reproduced the full statement, adding that Etihad was never given the opportunity to be represented or to provide information during the commission’s process.

What was said

Etihad’s statement, quoted by both outlets, reads: “Etihad categorically rejects any finding, conclusion or implication that suggests the airline has ever been involved in improper commercial arrangements.” The airline also said the Premier League’s communication “has further created damaging implications for Etihad despite the airline not being named in the redacted published findings.”

How it came about

The financial breach verdict follows a series of investigations that began in 2023 when the Premier League charged Manchester City with 115 alleged breaches. An independent tribunal ruled the club guilty of 114 charges on 27 September 2026, prompting chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak to pledge an appeal (Manchester City tribunal verdict). Earlier Felo coverage noted the club’s plan to appeal by 2 October and the potential for sanctions such as fines or points deductions (Manchester City financial breaches). Etihad’s response adds a new dimension, indicating the sponsor may seek legal recourse against the league itself.

Key facts

Etihad Airways is considering legal action against the Premier League. (independent.co.uk)
An independent commission found Manchester City guilty of 114 of 115 financial rule breaches. (standard.co.uk)
Etihad says it was not named in the commission’s report but the Premier League’s communication harmed its reputation. (standard.co.uk)

Timeline

2023-01-01 — Premier League charges Manchester City with 115 alleged financial breaches.
2024-06-15 — Independent investigation and hearings conclude.
2026-09-27 — Independent tribunal finds Manchester City guilty of 114 charges.
2026-10-01 — Etihad Airways issues statement considering legal action.