The Government has announced a new independent football regulator to oversee local clubs.
Introduced as part of a wider Football Governance Bill, the legislation to create a new independent regulator will aim to block clubs from joining breakaway leagues, create a new licensing scheme for owners and enable more fan representation. The Bill delivers on the Government's longstanding commitment to protect the national game.
Baseline standards will be introduced for fan involvement in key off-field decisions such as but not limited to giving fans a veto over changes to the badge and home shirt colours, and the Regulator will also oversee requests by owners to sell clubs or relocate the stadium. This will allow fans’ voices to better heard and ensure they are consulted if significant changes to a club are proposed.
The Government is adopting a light-touch, advocacy-first approach to regulation. As well as overseeing a new licensing regime in the top five tiers of English football, the regulator will work closely with leagues and clubs to resolve issues where they emerge, whilst retaining the power to take action to protect the financial sustainability of clubs and the interests of fans. This may include revoking licenses and imposing fines where serious breaches occur.
Put together, these measures will strengthen the governance and financial resilience of football clubs and safeguard the future of clubs for the benefit of communities and fans.
As a former Minister for Sport, I know that the Government is right to give greater access to fans through the new independent regulator. I led the Government’s response to the Fan Led Review of Football, which endorsed an independent regulator, and I am pleased to see this announcement deliver on their important recommendation.
I know that this announcement will be of great importance to my constituents, and I look forward to securing a more sustainable future for our local clubs.
