Cardiff Sue Nantes for ₦147 Billion Over Death of Emiliano Sala

Emiliano Sala memorial | Imago

Cardiff Sue Nantes for ₦147 Billion Over Death of Emiliano Sala

Ayoola Kelechi 19:20 - 21.04.2024

The Argentine striker's tragic death is once again the source of a legal battle between Cardiff and Nantes

Cardiff City has initiated legal proceedings against FC Nantes, seeking a staggering sum of €120.2 million (approximately ₦147 billion) in economic damages following the tragic death of Emiliano Sala in January 2019.

The Tragic Incident

Emiliano Sala, the Argentine striker, met with a fatal accident when the aircraft he was travelling in from Nantes to Cardiff crashed into the sea near Guernsey. The incident, which occurred on the 21st of January 2019, has since sparked a prolonged legal battle between the two clubs, with the €17 million transfer fee forming the crux of the dispute.

Cardiff City, subsequently relegated that season, contends that Sala's untimely demise directly contributed to their relegation from the Premier League. To quantify the economic impact of the loss, the club engaged Analytics FC, specialists in data science, to assess the probability of Cardiff City avoiding relegation had Sala remained alive.

Calculating Economic Damages

Based on the analysis conducted by Maurice Nussenbaum, a French legal and financial expert enlisted by Cardiff, the club arrived at the total damage incurred due to Sala's death.

Argentine striker Emiliano Sala | Imago
Argentine striker Emiliano Sala | Imago

The calculation factored in the expected goals and expected points, determining the likelihood of Cardiff City retaining their Premier League status. The resulting figure amounted to a staggering €120.2 million, encompassing the financial ramifications of relegation to the Championship and perceived reputational damage.

Nantes' Response and Continued Legal Battle

In response to Cardiff's legal action, FC Nantes has condemned the "judicial relentlessness" displayed by the Welsh club. Additionally, Nantes has filed a counterclaim, citing "moral damage," and is seeking fines against Cardiff City.

A memorial for Emiliano Salah | Imago
A memorial for Emiliano Salah | Imago

As the legal proceedings unfold, both clubs remain entrenched in a protracted dispute, each asserting its position regarding the financial and moral implications of Emiliano Sala's tragic passing. The outcome of the legal battle is eagerly awaited, with the case highlighting the complexities and repercussions surrounding football-related incidents beyond the pitch.

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