Overview

This bill aims to improve the governance of English football to ensure its long-term sustainability and protect the interests of fans and local communities. It establishes an Independent Football Regulator (IFR) with significant powers to oversee the financial stability and ethical conduct of clubs and competitions.

Description

The bill creates the IFR, an independent body responsible for licensing football clubs and regulating their owners and officers. The IFR will grant operating licenses to clubs, subject to meeting mandatory and discretionary conditions, focusing on financial soundness and fan engagement. It will also have investigatory and enforcement powers, including the ability to issue fines, disqualification orders, and even remove club owners deemed unsuitable. The bill introduces a revenue distribution mechanism, allowing the IFR to mandate fairer revenue sharing among competition organizers. It also includes provisions for information gathering, investigations into rule infringements, reviews of IFR decisions, and appeals to the Competition Appeal Tribunal.

Key Aspects:

• Independent Football Regulator (IFR): Established to oversee English football.
• Operating Licenses: Required for clubs to compete in specified competitions.
• Owner and Officer Suitability: IFR determines suitability; can disqualify or remove unsuitable individuals.
• Revenue Distribution: Mechanism for fairer revenue sharing among competitions.
• Investigatory and Enforcement Powers: IFR can investigate and sanction rule breaches.
• Appeals Process: Provides a route for appeals to the Competition Appeal Tribunal.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't explicitly state the total cost to the UK government. However, it will incur costs related to the IFR's establishment and ongoing financial assistance. The IFR itself will generate income through levies on licensed clubs. Specific figures are not provided in the bill text.

Groups Affected

• Football Clubs: Subject to licensing, financial regulations, and duties regarding fan engagement, relocation, and changes to club identity. Failure to comply can result in sanctions.
• Club Owners and Officers: Subject to suitability assessments; may face disqualification, removal, or other sanctions for misconduct.
• Competition Organisers: Subject to regulations regarding revenue distribution and collaboration with the IFR.
• Fans: The bill aims to enhance fan engagement and protection; fans will be consulted on certain matters relating to their clubs.
• Government: Responsible for establishing and funding the IFR (initially), and for overseeing its operation.

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