Stepping into the tail end of December 25th, UEFA boss Chevillin looked back and forward to 2022 with a bit of a look back at European football. He noted that it has been both a busy and transformative year for European soccer, with the HatTrick Expansion and Development Program set to be a key engine for advancing the cause of European soccer. He also emphasized that in the future they will do their utmost to ensure that European soccer is on a healthy and sustainable path.
Here is the full text of Cheferin's year-end summary of European soccer in 2022:
In 2022, UEFA never stops. Together with the European soccer family, we are constantly striving to defend and promote the core values of sport, as they are the soul of our game. These values encompass fair play based on sporting performance, financial balance at the top and bottom of the soccer pyramid, and recognition of the wider role of soccer in society.
Throughout the year, the Women's Europa League has undoubtedly been the best platform for transmitting these values. It was a vibrant, festive and record-breaking event. It has not only enhanced the strength, prestige and values of the women's soccer team, but has also galvanized the hosts, England, and the rest of Europe.
Figures show that more fans than ever are attending the tournament, with one in six coming from overseas. In addition, the contribution of the Women's Europa League to social change is impressive, with 48% of ticket holders being women and 30% under the age of 30.
We will reinvest the revenues from top-level tournaments back into soccer development, laying a solid foundation for the advancement of women's and men's soccer.
At our Annual General Meeting in Vienna, we announced the expansion of the HatTrick program to distribute Men's Europa League revenues to 55 member associations. HatTrick funding is expected to grow by 21% from 2024 to 2028, injecting a steady stream of energy into European soccer.
This year, UEFA's diplomacy has taken on a strong and determined pace. Through the great appeal and influence of soccer, we have raised awareness of human rights, environmental and social issues. At the same time, we have contributed to the fight against climate change, led anti-discrimination campaigns, promoted diversity and inclusiveness, and advocated healthy lifestyles for young and old.
Of course, all of these achievements could not have been achieved without the exciting matches between club and national teams. These matches not only prove the importance of fair play, but also give everyone, regardless of age or ability, the opportunity to dream of competing at the highest level.
Finally, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to all those who support UEFA and defend the European model of sport. Your support will continue to inspire us as we move forward in 2023, and we will do all we can to ensure a healthy and sustainable future for European soccer.
