King Charles III confirmed in his speech that legislation to help protect the future of football clubs with the installation of an independent regulator for English football will be introduced in 2024.
Amid a torrid time for several football clubs in England who have had their futures jeopardised under their current owners, including Reading, Sheffield Wednesday and Southend United, the government are introducing an independent regulator next year.
“Legislation will be brought forward to safeguard the future of football clubs for the benefit of communities and fans,” said King Charles in his Speech.
Spokesperson for Reading FC fans pressure Sell Before We Dai, Nick Houlton said: “To see football regulation mentioned in the King’s Speech is a huge moment. Not just for Reading fans, but all football fans whose clubs have fallen victim to football’s ownership problem.
“We are hopeful that an independent regulator will help football clubs and their fans avoid the traumatic circumstances the likes of Reading, Southend, Morecambe and others have had to endure in recent years.
“However, we also appreciate this is just the beginning. Fans will need to be front-and-centre of how this regulator is governed, but thanks to the campaigning efforts of the Reading faithful – we will have a seat at the table.
“We will continue to push for Reading to be made a test case for the independent regulator, with the view of building a brighter future for our club, our fans and the wider footballing community.”
Niall Couper, chief executive of Fair Game, a campaign group for change in the running of English football said: “There will be intense pressure to weaken the regulator’s remit at a time when proper protection and scrutiny of our National Game is needed more than ever.”
“Those tasked with setting up the regulator must resist that pressure and remain laser-focused to deliver a fairer future for football and the culture change the sport desperately needs.
“Reckless spending, disconnect between clubs and their communities, and lip service to equality standards must be consigned to the rubbish bin of history. This transformation can only be achieved if the regulator has the teeth and resources to deliver.”
The Supporters’ Trust at Reading added: “We are immensely proud of the Reading FC fanbase for showing their passion and love in the march that took place on October 28.
“While times remain deeply concerning, Supporters’ Trust at Reading welcome developments in football that we hope will avoid other clubs finding themselves in this perilous state.”
