KING CHARLES will today kick off the process of setting up an independent regulator in a “watershed moment” for English football.
In his Speech at the State Opening of Parliament, the King will confirm that his Government is going ahead with plans to create a new body to oversee the game.
The move, recommended by the fan-led review which was fronted by former sports minister Tracey Crouch, has cross-party support.
Fair Game, a coalition of clubs, academics and politicians, is pleased that its long-term campaign for better regulation appears to be bearing fruit.
Fair Game said: “We are excited about the prospect of a football regulator being announced in the King’s Speech, as it represents a watershed moment for the sport in England.
“We believe such a regulator can play a vital role in enhancing the overall governance of football, promoting fairness, and ensuring that the sport remains inclusive and accessible to all.
“At Fair Game, we believe that football should be governed with fairness, openness, and transparency.
“The challenges faced by clubs in recent years, including notable casualties, have highlighted the urgent need for reform.
“Our mission is to provide realistic solutions to these challenges and ensure that football is a thriving and accessible sport that brings communities together.”
The Bill required to create the regulator – equivalent to Ofwat, which oversees the water industry – could be introduced before the end of the year.
But it will take some time for the legislation to be debated and passed. It is expected that only a framework will be in place in time for the start of next season, with the full regulatory body unlikely to start operating with full powers before 2025-26.
The Premier League, EFL and Football Association have all, with differing levels of commitment, resisted independent regulation.
But scandals such as the current situation at League One Reading have only strengthened the case that football is incapable of running itself properly.
