Football Governance Bill [HL]: HL Bill 41 of 2024–25

The Football Governance Bill [HL] 2024–25 is a government bill that would introduce a new regulatory regime for men’s football in England, particularly the top five tiers (from the Premier League to the National League). The bill defines its key purpose as protecting and promoting the sustainability of English football. Changes proposed in the bill include:

• the establishment of an independent football regulator (IFR)
• introducing a licensing system for clubs (licence conditions would cover club finances, fan engagement and other issues)
• strengthened ownership and directors’ tests, with sanctions available to deal with individuals deemed unsuitable
• restrictions on clubs operating teams in prohibited competitions or changing aspects of the club’s heritage without fan approval
• setting out a process (including mediation and then IFR involvement) for agreeing the distribution of revenue throughout the football pyramid if agreement cannot be reached otherwise
• introducing a number of IFR sanctions and information-gathering powers

The legislation is a Labour manifesto commitment. However, a similar bill was introduced by the previous Conservative government in the last session (this bill fell due to the general election). The general proposals have cross-party support. It also follows several government papers and reviews initiated by the previous Conservative government to develop the policy, including consultation with fan groups and other stakeholders.

The changes have been proposed in the context of concerns over the financial sustainability of football (resulting in the collapse or near-collapse of some clubs), ownership models and possible breakaway leagues. Bodies such as the English Football League and the Football Supporters' Association have championed the proposals in the bill. However, the Premier League has expressed concerns about how it might impact investment and competitiveness.