English Football Governance: The New Regulatory Framework The Bench Report podcast

English Football Governance: The New Regulatory Framework

3d ago 13:46

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In this episode, we uncover the details of the Football Governance Bill [HL], a significant piece of legislation introduced in the House of Lords on 24 October 2024 and progressing through Parliament. This bill aims "to protect and promote the sustainability of English football". We'll explore the policy background that led to its creation, the key aspects of the bill itself, and what it means for the future of the English game.

The bill is a response to long-standing worries about the financial stability of English football clubs, their ownership, and the need for greater fan involvement. Concerns were amplified by events like the expulsion of Bury FC, the financial impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, and the abandoned plans for a European Super League.

These issues prompted a Fan-led Review of football governance in 2021, which recommended the establishment of an independent regulator. The government accepted this recommendation, and a subsequent white paper in February 2023 outlined plans for this regulator. The current Football Governance Bill is very similar to a previous version that didn't complete its parliamentary journey.

Key Takeaways:

The Football Governance Bill [HL] aims to ensure the financial sustainability of English football and enhance fan involvement.
A key component is the creation of an Independent Football Regulator (IFR) with powers to license clubs and oversee their financial health.
The bill introduces a stricter regime for determining the suitability of club owners and officers.
Clubs will have greater duties to protect their heritage and engage with supporters on important matters.
The IFR will have backstop powers to intervene in revenue distribution if football authorities fail to agree.

Source: Football Governance Bill [HL] 2024-25
Research Briefing
Published Wednesday, 23 April, 2025

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Chapters

1. English Football Governance: The New Regulatory Framework (00:00:00)

2. Introduction (00:00:08)

3. Three main aims of the bill (00:01:41)

4. Independent Football Regulator (IFR) (00:02:12)

5. Provisional and Full licences (00:03:45)

6. Preventing breakaway clubs (00:05:17)

7. Suitable owners and officers (00:05:34)

8. Protecting club heritage (00:07:37)

9. Distribution of revenue (00:09:11)

10. Parachute payments (00:10:13)

11. IFR powers (00:10:36)

12. Conclusions (00:11:59)

28 episodes