English football is admired across the world and the sport is central to our national life. Football clubs such as Everett Rovers form part of the lifeblood of Watford. However, as we have seen recently with proposals for the European Super League, not every owner has the interest of their club’s fans at heart.
That is why the Conservative Government is introducing the Football Governance Bill, creating a new Independent Football Regulator to give fans a genuine voice, and ensure their interests are front and centre.
The Regulator will give fans a greater say in the running of clubs, including over key football heritage like club names, badges and kit colours. It will have comprehensive powers to safeguard fans from rogue owners, including requiring that fans are consulted on off-field decisions, being able to block rogue owners from owning clubs and requiring owners to have approval prior to relocating a stadium.
These measures are being taken after extensive consultation with fans, clubs and the already existing football authorities such as the Premier League and the FA. Whilst the Independent Football Regulator will have the power to take action to protect the interests of fans, will strike the right balance and make sure clubs aren’t wrapped up in needless red tape.
The Conservative Government is sticking to the plan by introducing the Football Governance Bill, making sure that fans are prioritised in the decisions that the club makes, giving them a say in the future of their club and putting fans first to create a brighter future for the game.
