Cardiff Seeks Over £100 Million in French Court for 2019 Emiliano Sala Tragedy
Cardiff City Football Club is preparing to present its case in the French courts concerning the tragic loss of player Emiliano Sala. The club seeks damages amounting to €120.2 million (£105 million) from FC Nantes, where Sala had previously played.
Background of the Case
The legal proceedings stem from a plane crash in January 2019 that resulted in the deaths of Emiliano Sala and pilot David Ibbotson. The aircraft was transporting Sala from Nantes to Cardiff City, which was then competing in the Premier League following an agreed transfer fee.
After the incident, Cardiff City experienced a series of challenges, culminating in relegation from the Premier League. They have since dropped to League One, leading to claims that Sala’s death significantly impacted the club’s performance.
Details of the Court Hearing
Set to take place in Nantes, the hearing on Monday follows a complaint filed by Cardiff in Nantes Commercial Court. Although an initial hearing was postponed, it is now proceeding as Cardiff aims to establish a link between Sala’s untimely death and the club’s struggles.
The case is particularly complex due to the involvement of various parties, including former football agent Willie McKay. Cardiff’s attorneys will assert that FC Nantes maintained direct contact with McKay, who was not authorized to operate as an agent at the time.
Key Events and Statements
- January 2019: Emiliano Sala dies in a plane crash in the English Channel.
- February 2024: Cardiff City reaches a confidential out-of-court settlement with Willie McKay.
- April 2023: Cardiff announces potential losses totaling €120.2 million based on expert analysis.
- 2021: David Henderson, who organized the flight for Sala, receives an 18-month prison sentence for safety violations.
A jury in 2022 concluded that Sala died from injuries sustained in the crash, aggravated by carbon monoxide exposure from the aircraft. It was determined that he likely lost consciousness before the flight’s tragic end.
Looking Forward
Cardiff City prepares to present its case with a sense of urgency and hope for justice. Ahead of the hearing, the club remarked on the broader implications of the case, stressing its commitment to improving safety standards in football transactions.
The hearing is scheduled to commence at 4 PM French time (3 PM GMT) and is expected to conclude with a judgment in spring 2026. Cardiff City has expressed confidence in the French legal system and views this hearing as a crucial step toward accountability in football.
