Cardiff City have confirmed they will appeal against a French court's ruling that dismissed their €120m (£104m) compensation claim against FC Nantes following the tragic death of Emiliano Sala.
The Argentine striker, 28, and pilot David Ibbotson died when the Piper Malibu plane carrying them crashed into the English Channel on 21 January 2019. Sala was en route to join Cardiff, then in the Premier League, after a £15m transfer from Nantes.
The Claim and Dismissal
In March, the Nantes commercial court threw out Cardiff's claim for more than €120m in damages—a figure based on the belief that Sala's goals could have kept the Welsh club in the top flight. The court not only dismissed the case but also ordered Cardiff to pay approximately £400,000 in legal fees and moral damages to the French side, a penalty that was immediately enforceable.
“Cardiff had a three-month window to decide—with the deadline this week—but the club has now confirmed they have lodged their intention.”
The original verdict was a severe blow to Cardiff, who had argued that Sala's signing was central to their survival hopes. Instead, relegation followed, and the financial ramifications have been profound.
What Happens Next?
An appeal triggers a new trial at the Court of Appeal in Rennes, where the entire case will be re‑examined. This process could take up to two years, prolonging a legal saga that has already stretched over seven years.
Key Facts:
Claim amount: €120m (£104m)
Initial transfer fee: £15m
Date of crash: 21 January 2019
Appeal court: Court of Appeal, Rennes
Expected duration: Up to two years
While the appeal offers a second chance, the emotional toll and legal costs continue to mount for all parties involved in one of football's most tragic and protracted disputes.
