By Andrew Warshaw
January 2 – The joint use of the Liberty stadium in Swansea, built at a cost of £27 million, is the latest case being investigated by the European Commission as part of a widescale probe into state aid in sport. Officials have asked the local council to supply funding details of a deal which has enabled Swansea City and rugby club Ospreys to play there since 2005.
State aid rules monitored by the Commission limit how much public money can be given to private companies.
The two clubs pay a peppercorn rent to the Swansea Stadium Management Company (SSMC) – a body running the stadium which is a partnership between the council and the two clubs. They also contribute over £1 million a year to running costs.
A Swansea council spokesperson said: “The European Commission has asked us a number of questions in relation to the Liberty Stadium and currently we are in dialogue with them, as are a large number of sports clubs from across Europe.”
The most high profile clubs being probed for alleged irregular public funding are Spanish giants Barcelona and Real Madrid and if it is proved that the use of the Liberty Stadium breaks European law, then Swansea’s football and rugby teams could face having to pay back money, plus interest.
“The club is aware that the European Commission is currently in discussions with Swansea City Council in relation to the Liberty Stadium. We have asked to be kept informed of any future development,” said a Swansea City club spokesman.
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