A bill to create an independent regulator for English football is expected to be introduced on Tuesday, with the aim of ensuring clubs' financial sustainability and preventing teams from taking part in breakaway competitions such as the European Super League.
The Football Governance Bill, which underpins the creation of a new regulator to license clubs in England's top five leagues, has been described by British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak as a “historic moment for football fans”.
The UK government is acting on recommendations from a fan-led review carried out after two lower-league clubs, Bury and Macclesfield, collapsed due to financial mismanagement. This is also a response to the failed attempt by 12 of Europe's elite clubs, including six clubs from the English Premier League, to form a European Super League in 2021.
The English club quickly shelved the idea following backlash from fans and the government.
The government says the regulator will be an independent body, independent of government and the football authorities, and will be responsible for “improving the financial sustainability of clubs, ensuring the financial resilience of the league as a whole and ensuring the health of clubs. It has a strong mandate that revolves around three core objectives: It's the legacy of English football. ”
Under the bill, new owners and directors will be subject to stricter tests to prevent clubs from falling into the wrong hands, and could be removed from ownership if found unsuitable. be.
For the first time, clubs from the Premier League to the National League will need a license to compete in the elite competition. The license requires all clubs to meet certain mandatory conditions, including basic fan engagement, corporate governance and financial reporting requirements.
Clubs are required to consult their fans on important off-field decisions, such as the club's traditions and the club's strategic direction. There will also be protection against breakaway tournaments and stadium relocation.
The regulator will also have powers to resolve the ongoing financial distribution dispute between the Premier League and the English Football League (the three divisions below the top flight). The “backstop powers”, as the government is calling them, will be confirmed when the bill is tabled in parliament on Tuesday.
Culture Secretary Lucy Fraser said: “Football cannot exist without fans.” “We are determined to put them back at the heart of the game and ensure the club continues to thrive as a vital asset to the community.
“Football’s new independent regulator will put the game on a sustainable footing and strengthen clubs and the entire football pyramid for generations.”
The Premier League, the world's most-watched and most profitable domestic league, faces a potential reduction in its powers and regulators have previously expressed concerns about the potential for harm to the league and have passed the bill. He said he would consider the matter and work closely with the government. the league's ability to attract investment;
The competition said on Monday: “We note that the future growth of the Premier League is not guaranteed and remain concerned about the unintended consequences of the legislation, which could reduce the competitiveness and attractiveness of English football.” Ta.