It could be heartbreak for Hearts fans as UEFA has launched an investigation into their participation in Europe. This comes after questions were raised over Tony Bloom being connected to both the Jambos and English side Brighton.
Although Hearts lost out on the Scottish Premiership title, they secured their spot in the UEFA Champions League qualifiers for finishing second in the league. Brighton is also set to play on the big stage, likely in the Europa League, and the ties between the two clubs are reportedly set to be investigated.
Brighton owner Bloom holds a 29% stake in the Edinburgh side, under the 30% threshold that prohibits owners from having a stake in more than one club in its competitions. However, there are other rules, such as one that states ‘no individual can exercise by any means a decisive influence in the decision-making of more than one club’ in a UEFA competition, which means the Jambos could be in bother.
Don’t worry, Hearts fans – you can breathe a sigh of relief, because according to the club, they have been assured by UEFA that any investigation will not decide whether or not they can compete in Europe next season. Bloom has also expressed his confidence that his stakes will have no effect on their participation, putting worries at ease.
Hearts said to The Edinburgh Evening News:
As previously stated, Tony’s investment in Hearts and the restrictions on his personal involvement with the club have been carefully considered and structured to ensure total compliance with UEFA’s rules. We can confirm that UEFA has given assurances to Tony that his investment at Hearts does not create an issue.
So, thankfully for fans of the Jambos, this seems to be an open and shut case that will not have any say on if they can play in Europe.
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