Plans to “radically reform” the governance of men’s football in England have been announced by sports minister and Mid-Worcestershire MP Nigel Huddleston.
In a statement to the House of Commons, Mr Huddleston said the Government was endorsing 10 key recommendations set out in a fan-led review published by former sports minister Tracey Crouch last year.
The changes are aimed at improving financial sustainability and corporate governance across the game, and at placing fans at the heart of decision-making.
The regulator will be backed by primary legislation to provide it with the statutory powers to license and sanction clubs as part of its remit to tackle the most pressing issues throughout the football pyramid.
The review was based on engagement with supporters’ trusts, fan groups, women’s football representatives, football authorities, club owners, players representatives, and underrepresented interest groups, alongside over 20,000 fans responding to an online survey.
Mr Huddleston said: “It’s just over a year since the failed European Super League bid but it is clear that radical change is needed to protect the future of our national game.
Mid Worcestershire MP Nigel Huddleston
“We will work at pace to establish a strong, independent regulator however the football authorities can be taking action now to tackle issues currently facing the game such as the issue of fair distribution of finances throughout the football pyramid and giving fans a greater say in the running of their clubs.”
£230 million investment in football
Prime Minister Boris Johnson added: “Football brings friends, families, and communities together, which is why we are taking forward the fan-led plans to secure the future of our national game – from the £230 million investment to level up grassroots pitches to strengthening the voice of fans in the running of their clubs.”
The final report, supported by an expert advisory panel, concluded that football requires a strong, independent regulator to secure the future of the national game.
It found a significant part of the reason for the perilous state of football was due to reckless financial decision-making often being prioritized by unsuitable owners and directors in the pursuit of glory, putting the future of clubs – and their status as community assets – at risk.
A white paper setting out full details on these measures and an indicative timetable for legislation is expected to be published this summer.