MPs in Parliament have voted for an Independent Football Regulator to safeguard the future of clubs for the benefit of communities and fans.
English football has experienced a turbulent few years with long-standing governance issues culminating in the collapse of established football clubs, such as Bury FC and Macclesfield Town. A failed attempt by some English clubs to join a breakaway European Super League, without proper consultation of fans, has demonstrated the urgent need for reform and accountability.
The Independent Football Regulator will strengthen the governance and financial resilience of football clubs to protect the game and clubs’ links with communities and fans. The Regulator will work closely with leagues and clubs to resolve issues where they emerge, and will have the power to take action to protect the financial sustainability of clubs when required.
Legislation follows a Fan Led Review of Football Governance, which outlined a series of recommendations in 2021. The Government is adopting or supporting all ten of the Review’s strategic recommendations.
Key provisions within the Bill introduce a licensing system, where clubs in the top five tiers of the men’s English football pyramid will need a licence to operate. This will stop clubs from joining breakaway competitions, to the detriment of fans.
Other proposals include powers to prevent the financial mismanagement of football clubs, and the necessity that owners put forward a coherent business plan, showing how the club will be run.
The Football Governance Bill has the interests of fans at its heart, and when implemented, clubs will be required to seek pre-approval for any sale or relocation of a stadium, as well as community engagement on club heritage, giving fans a veto over changes to a club badge or home shirt.
Hexham MP Guy Opperman voted for the Bill on Tuesday. Commenting on the creation of an Independent Football Regulator, Mr Opperman said:
’Whether you are a Magpie or a Mackem, this crucial legislation will protect and secure the lasting legacy of our historic local football clubs.
Football is nothing without its fans, and these reforms - the most comprehensive English football has ever seen, will guarantee fans a greater say in how their football club is run.
I look forward to the Independent Football Regulator becoming established, and strengthening the proud community-led football we all love in the North East.’