Sports Direct, owned by Mike Ashley, has faced a setback in its legal battle with Newcastle United Football Club (NUFC) regarding the sale of replica kits for the upcoming 2024/25 season. The retailer had lodged a complaint against NUFC with the Competition Appeal Tribunal in March, accusing the club of abusing its market dominance by exclusively granting JD Sports the rights to sell replica shirts alongside NUFC’s own channels and Adidas, the official kit partner.
Seeking an injunction and damages of £1.5 million, Sports Direct alleged breaches of competition rules. However, the tribunal panel dismissed the claim, citing Sports Direct’s failure to demonstrate a “serious issue to be tried.” The panel’s ruling highlighted concerns about Sports Direct’s supply chain, unrelated to NUFC, contributing to its decision not to grant interim action. Consequently, the dispute between Sports Direct and NUFC will proceed to trial for resolution.
