Landmark Football Governance Bill Clears Commons, Paving Way for Independent Regulator

MPs approve new football watchdog and licensing system for top five tiers of men's football, aiming for clubs' accountability and sustainability.

By Chris Posiano

July 9, 2025 at 2:49 AM

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Independent Football Regulator and Operating Licenses Approved by MPs

In a significant move towards enhancing transparency and accountability in English football, the Football Governance Bill has cleared the Commons with a resounding 415 votes to 98 in favour, setting the stage for the establishment of an Independent Football Regulator and the rollout of operating licenses for football clubs competing in the top five tiers of the men's game.

This new regulator will ensure that football clubs are run sustainably and maintain a strong sense of accountability towards their fanbase. In addition, the regulator will be endowed with "backstop" powers to mediate financial disputes between the English Football League (EFL) and the Premier League, should they fail to reach an agreement on their own.

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy lauded the decision, stating, "We have fulfilled our manifesto promise to end years of inaction and bring about changes that fans have been advocating for a long time. Today marks a significant step towards putting fans at the heart of the game, where they truly belong."

Notably, the regulator's chair, David Kogan, a media rights expert, was named as the Government's preferred candidate in April. His appointment was endorsed by a cross-party committee of MPs, though concerns have been raised over his alleged political donations to prominent Labour figures, including Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Ms. Nandy herself.

The Bill also dealt with calls from the Conservatives to consult on the "two-tier" alcohol ban in football stands, which have been in place since 1985. However, the Government declined to entertain such a consultation, with sports minister Stephanie Peacock stating that the issue does not fall within the scope of the Bill.

The Bill also addressed the issue of player welfare, with the Government committing to further investigate the financial support for ex-players who have suffered brain conditions due to heading footballs. A number of MPs had tabled amendments calling for greater support for former players who have developed neurodegenerative diseases as a result of heading footballs.