Football fans protested outside stadiums in April 2021 following the announcement of the European Super League. The UK government will introduce the Football Governance Bill in Parliament on Tuesday, establishing an independent football regulator. This regulator, separate from both the government and football authorities, will oversee the UK’s national sport.
The legislation comes after a fan-led review in 2022, with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak calling it a “historic moment for football fans.” The aim is to ensure that the voices of fans are prioritized, addressing issues such as financial mismanagement that have led to club collapses like Bury and Macclesfield Town.
The regulator will focus on improving the financial sustainability of clubs, ensuring financial resilience across leagues, and safeguarding English football’s heritage. Stronger tests will be implemented for new club owners and directors to prevent further club closures, and a licensing system will require clubs to consult fans on key decisions.
The bill also includes backstop powers regarding financial distributions between the Premier League and the EFL, ensuring that the regulator can intervene if necessary. Former sports minister Tracey Crouch, who chaired the fan-led review, stated that the regulator will protect the long-term sustainability of the football pyramid.
While some groups have expressed concerns about the specifics of the bill, such as Fair Game questioning the regulator’s intervention powers, the overall goal is to put fans back at the heart of the game and ensure the long-term success of clubs and the football pyramid.
