March 13 – The World Leagues Association (WLA) has added the 12-team Slovak Niké Liga as a member.
Founded in 1993 and organised by the League Clubs Union (Unia Ligovych Klubov), the Niké Liga becomes the 47th member of the WLA which is rapidly expanding its influence as one of football,’s key stakeholders, much to the concern of FIFA who has generally tried to keep on the outside of all discussion, particularly those regarding the international calendar.
The most-watched league in Slovakia, the Niké Liga prodes itself on developing young players, as well as actively engaging in social responsibility projects thoughout the country.
Michal Mertinyák (pictured left), Executive Director of the League Clubs Union said: “Knowledge sharing and constant growth of our league have been the main drivers for entering the WLA family. Being already a member of the Board of directors of European leagues, I fully understand the challenges, that leagues are facing all over the world. We need to stand firmly together and protect the backbone of world football, the leagues.”
The Niké Liga and the World Leagues Association will share knowledge and best practices with all other member leagues of the WLA, and participate in discussions on key industry topics.
The membership was signed by Mertinyák and Don Garber, Vice-Chair of the World Leagues Association and Commissioner of Major League Soccer in Frankfurt as a side event to the European Leagues General Assembly.
Don Garber (pictured right), Commissioner of Major League Soccer and Vice-Chair of the World Leagues Association said: “We are thrilled to welcome the Niké Liga as a new member of the World Leagues Association. The Niké Liga has achieved important milestones in strengthening professional football in Slovakia. We look forward to collaborating with their leadership to support the league’s continued growth and success.”
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