Fenerbahce appeal over Champions League exclusion

Fenerbahce have opened a case at the Court of Arbitration for Sport as they seek damages from UEFA and the Turkish Football Federation following their exclusion from this season’s Champions League.

Turkish champions Fener were thrown out of Europe’s elite club competition as part of an investigation into match-fixing which has seen more than 30 players and officials jailed pending trial, including Fener chairman Aziz Yildirim.

A statement from the club confirmed they were taking their case to the highest sporting authority.

“The case is opened with a demand now for 45 million euros (£39.4 million) and reserving the right for more in connection with our material loss due to the said exclusion,” it said.

The court petition also requested an interim measure to reinstate Fenerbahce in the Champions League. The club expect a CAS decision on this by next weekend.