
The guest on the eighty-eighth episode of Folha Seca is Claudius Schäfer, CEO of the Swiss Super League and President of the European Leagues. Throughout the conversation, Claudius discusses his ascent from the SFL's legal department to the top executive role. He reflects on the strategic evolution of the Swiss competition, detailing the implementation of the new "Scottish Model" format and the complexities of maintaining competitive balance in a league often dominated by just a few clubs. In his dual role as President of the European Leagues, he covers critical geopolitical battles—from the landmark legal action against FIFA regarding the international calendar to the fight for fairer revenue distribution—and addresses the paradox of media rights cannibalization. Claudius also shares his management philosophy, redefining the League as a proactive service provider rather than a mere regulator, offering a comprehensive view on the fight to sustain Europe's small and mid-sized football markets.