Cardiff City have issued a powerful statement on the eve of a landmark court hearing, nearly seven years after the tragic death of striker Emiliano Sala. The club is seeking £105 million in damages from French side FC Nantes, with a crucial case set to begin at the Nantes Commercial Court.
The Tragic Flight and a Seven-Year Legal Fight
The case stems from the events of January 2019, when the 28-year-old Argentine forward was killed alongside pilot David Ibbotson. Their plane crashed into the English Channel while en route to Wales, after Sala had been presented as Cardiff's £15 million record signing from Nantes. The unlicensed private flight had been arranged by agent Willie McKay and his son, Mark.
A lengthy legal battle between the two clubs has ensued. David Henderson, who organised the fatal flight, was later sentenced to 18 months in prison. The proceedings in Nantes, starting at 4pm UK time on Monday, will finally address the core of Cardiff's claim for substantial financial compensation.
Cardiff's Call for Accountability in Football
In a strongly-worded statement published on its website, League One leaders Cardiff City declared its intention to hold Nantes accountable. The club asserts that the tragedy "could and should have been avoided" had Nantes not relied on the services of a banned agent who organised illegal flights.
"This tragedy, which began nearly seven years ago, cost Emiliano Sala his life," the statement read. "It is a tragedy that could and should have been avoided... This case isn't about harming football: it's about protecting its integrity." The club emphasised that the hearing marks a step towards uncovering the truth and ensuring higher standards in football transfers.
What Happens Next in the Landmark Case
The hearing will commence with the judge delivering an initial summary after reviewing all submitted documents. Legal teams from both Cardiff City and FC Nantes will then present their arguments. The central question for the court is whether Nantes is liable for Cardiff's financial losses and, if so, the appropriate level of damages. A final verdict is not expected until spring 2026.
The aftermath of Sala's death had profound consequences for Cardiff. At the time of the incident, the club was in the Premier League under manager Neil Warnock. They were relegated later that season and, after several years in the Championship, dropped to League One in May 2025, where they currently sit top of the table.
Sala's body was recovered from the wreckage near Guernsey on 21 January 2019, while pilot Ibbotson's body was never found. As the legal process reaches this critical juncture, Cardiff's pursuit of a £105 million settlement continues a nearly seven-year quest for what they call justice and accountability.
