Government plans to put fans at the heart of football have been backed by local MP, Robert Halfon. These important reforms to the sport’s governance will see fans given a greater say in the running of local teams, as well as the creation of a strong, independent regulator to oversee the top five tiers of men’s football.
Football fans and their clubs will be given greater protections under the most radical transformation of the game since the first club was formed more than 165 years ago. Through a strong focus on financial stability, strong business leadership and effective governance, the Government is implementing measures to prevent the repeat of financial failings seen at some of our beloved clubs.
Fans will also have a greater say in the strategic running of their clubs. The Regulator will require clubs to comply with the FA on their new rules for heritage which will give fans a veto over changes to the badge and home shirt colours in addition to the strong existing protections for club names. Clubs will have to seek the approval of the regulator for any sale or relocation of the stadium, with fan engagement a major part of that process.
There will also be new tests for owners and directors, ensuring stronger due diligence and a requirement for robust financial planning. The regulator will have the power to prevent English clubs from joining new competitions which do not meet the predetermined criteria, in consultation with the FA. This will stop any future attempts at closed shop breakaway competitions like the European Super League.
Welcoming the Government’s plan, Mr Halfon commented, “As a football fan myself, I know how big a role the sport plays in our local community. For too long, fans have been overlooked by club owners which has led to club closures and league cancellations.
“That’s why I am pleased to support the Government’s new plan to radically reform football in England, transforming the current system and taking action to improve club leadership and management. Fans will be given a stronger voice to influence the running of their local clubs for generations to come.”
Lucy Frazer, Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, said, “Our plans will end the boom and bust culture of football club finances and prevent the risk that club owners treat historic assets as expendable commodities. We want to see the incredible success of the domestic game at home and abroad continue.
“But for too long those responsible for running our national game have failed and our reforms will help strengthen the game. With a new independent regulator to check prospective owners, stop unwanted breakaway leagues and protect clubs’ heritage, we are now calling time on mismanagement which has left too many fans facing the loss of the club’s that they love”.
