The European Football Clubs (EFC), formerly known as the European Club Association (ECA), is at its peak influence, negotiating with UEFA and FIFA over elite competitions like the Champions League, with a contract extending through 2033.

Since 2008, UEFA's financial commitments to the EFC have increased significantly, giving the organization more influence over competition management and revenues.

The EFC has its roots in the G-14 group formed in 1998, which challenged FIFA and UEFA, and has evolved through legal actions and negotiations to shape tournament revenues and regulations.

Controversies persist around multi-club ownership and private investor roles, with some clubs and fans opposing such arrangements.

The EFC played a crucial role in preventing the 2021 breakaway European Super League and now maintains strong, cooperative relationships with UEFA, especially with UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin.

Nasser Al-Khelaifi, head of the EFC and PSG, has fostered a close relationship with Ceferin, emphasizing collaboration and mutual respect to promote inclusive and competitive club football.

UEFA and the EFC are now working together, with Ceferin highlighting their shared goal of making club football more inclusive, and Al-Khelaifi praising UEFA’s values and courage.

The rebranding of the organization to EFC aims to better represent its role in advocating for over 800 clubs across Europe, including both men's and women's teams.

The EFC has strengthened strategic partnerships with UEFA and FIFA to influence the future of global football and advocate for club interests.

Looking ahead, challenges include addressing multi-club ownership controversies, evolving the Champions League format, and debates over governance and competition integrity.

The future of the Champions League remains uncertain, with ongoing discussions about potential new formats or replacements and the roles of UEFA and clubs.

The EFC has expanded its influence, managing broadcasting rights through joint ventures and playing a central role in shaping competition formats.