A new report by Tracey Crouch MP, chair of the Fan Led Review of Football Governance, shows how football would benefit from its recommendations – which have still not been implemented 12 months on.
The Fan Led Review: One Year On calls for urgent implementation of the Fan Led Review’s recommendations – to put fans at the heart of the game and protect football’s historic clubs.
The Fan Led Review was launched by Government following the failed European Super League plot and delivered its original findings in November 2021.
While progress continues – a Government White Paper is expected soon and sports minister Stuart Andrew said the case for reform was “not in doubt” – supporters are concerned that the top clubs are continuing to block real change.
The review’s major recommendation that an independent regulator for football should be established has still not happened. The regulator would have powers to block English clubs from joining a European Super League.
Further proposals would give supporters a bigger voice at all clubs and protect football stadiums, club badges, location, colours and competitions via a “golden share” held by democratic supporters’ groups.
Tracey Crouch MP, chair of the Fan-led Review, said:
“In the past 12 months we have seen stark examples of the ongoing problems in the game, such as those at Derby County that threatened its existence. Yet a minority of loud, self-interested voices continue to block meaningful reform, to the detriment of the game.
“But the support for reform from fan groups, many football officials and club owners, has been incredibly encouraging and gives me hope that the Government will utilise cross-party support to deliver the change that football needs. The time for reform is now.”
Kevin Miles, chief executive of the Football Supporters’ Association, said:
“The Prime Minister confirmed on the campaign trail that he backs the Fan-led Review and sees football as ‘part of the fabric of our culture’ which must be protected, with fans at the heart of the game.
“Every week that passes reveals the risks to the sustainability of football and the inability of the game to regulate itself effectively. An independent statutory regulator is a matter of urgency.”
Around 130 supporters’ groups gave evidence to the original Fan Led Review panel with a clear message that action was needed.
The Government has repeatedly supported the findings of the Fan Led Review and included a commitment in May’s Queen’s Speech, delivered by the then Prince Charles.
Discussions with the Premier League and EFL continue while the FA recently brought in new rules to protect club crests and home colours – described by FSA vice chair Tom Greatrex as a “significant step forward” that “wouldn’t have happened without the Fan Led Review”.
The Fan Led Review: One Year On is available for download. 