"Historic moment"

British government plans authority to monitor soccer

The British government wants an independent authority to monitor English soccer and ensure financial stability! A bill to this effect was to be introduced to parliament on Tuesday. The law would give the so-called soccer regulator control over the top five men's leagues. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak spoke of a "historic moment for soccer fans". 

The so-called soccer regulator is to be given a veto right in many decision-making areas. According to reports, the government wants to use the new authority to prevent financial mismanagement and ensure sustainability, subject potential new club owners to stricter scrutiny before taking over a club and also counteract a possible European Super League.

Fans are also to be more involved in decision-making processes. The government announced plans to this effect in February 2023.

"... concerned about possible unintended consequences ..."
While the English Football League, which is responsible for the 2nd to 4th division, welcomed the development, Premier League officials expressed skepticism. They are "concerned about any unintended consequences of legislation that could weaken the competitiveness and attractiveness of English soccer", they said in a statement. The draft must first go through the parliamentary process before it can become law.