Rick Parry, Chairman of the English Football League (EFL), has recently criticized the current state of English football governance, describing it as a “frankly broken system.” His remarks highlight the urgent need for reform and underscore the EFL’s support for the proposed Football Governance Bill, which aims to establish an independent regulator for the professional men’s game in England.
The Football Governance Bill, reintroduced by the Labour government in October 2024, is progressing through Parliament. Parry anticipates that it could become law by the summer of 2025. The bill has undergone several amendments during its passage, with the House of Lords currently examining its provisions. One significant amendment proposes that the new regulator consider international trade and foreign ownership issues when assessing club takeovers, a measure that has raised concerns among European football authorities.
Parry’s advocacy for the bill has not been without challenges. He expressed disappointment over comments by Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, who labeled the proposed regulator a “waste of money” and questioned its effectiveness. Parry noted that Badenoch had not consulted the EFL before making these remarks and has called for a meeting to present the EFL’s perspective, aiming to encourage a more balanced view on the issue.
The EFL’s support for the Football Governance Bill is driven by a desire to address systemic financial instability within the sport. The league has faced challenges in securing equitable funding arrangements with the Premier League, leading to financial disparities among clubs. Parry has emphasized the need for a more transparent and sustainable financial model to ensure the long-term health of English football.
As the bill moves closer to potential enactment, it represents a pivotal moment for English football. The establishment of an independent regulator is seen as a necessary step to restore integrity and financial stability to the sport, addressing long-standing concerns about governance and financial practices. The coming months will be critical as stakeholders await the bill’s final passage and implementation.
