September 04, (THEWILL) — The Independent Football Regulator has announced stricter proposals for ownership testing in English football, introducing enhanced criteria to prevent unsuitable individuals from controlling clubs. The new Owners, Directors and Senior Executives test will expand background checks to include domestic and international cases, banking records, and law enforcement data, marking a significant tightening of current standards.
The proposed regime will evaluate the honesty, integrity, and financial soundness of prospective club owners and executives, ensuring they possess appropriate skills and experience for their roles. This framework aims to promote responsible ownership across the 116 regulated football clubs within England’s football pyramid, establishing the first component of the IFR’s regulatory system.
Enhanced criteria will strengthen protections against illicit finance and criminal funding entering the sport, whilst existing owners and executives will not require immediate approval under the new system. However, the regulator retains authority to intervene should concerns emerge regarding current leadership within clubs.
The IFR is simultaneously consulting on information gathering powers, enforcement mechanisms, and sanctions including financial penalties, public censure, and potential ownership divestment requirements. These measures will be applied proportionately, recognising the importance of owner investment and risk-taking within English football’s commercial landscape.
Public consultation on these proposals runs until October 6, with the regulatory regime expected to commence following the publication of responses later this year. The Football Governance Bill, which established the IFR’s authority over England’s football pyramid, received parliamentary backing earlier in 2024.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
