Premier League sounds warning as government pushes through independent regulator

Sign up to Miguel Delaney’s Reading the Game newsletter sent straight to your inbox for free Sign up to Miguel’s Delaney’s free weekly newsletter Sign up to Miguel’s Delaney’s free weekly newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. The league said it would work to prevent “any unintended consequences that could affect the Premier League’s position as the most-watched football league in the world”. The driving force of the white paper is to “help prevent a repeat of financial failings seen at Derby County, Bury and Macclesfield Town”, but it will also strengthen the Premier League’s owners’ and directors’ test – which came under scrutiny during the Saudi-led buyout of Newcastle United – while giving fans a greater say in the running of their clubs, particularly regarding heritage such as team names, club crests and stadiums. “Going hand-in-hand with financial reform, the league is supportive of proposals relating to enhanced regulation and looks forward to consulting with government on matters including club licensing, the owners and directors test and heritage protection in the period ahead.” open image in gallery Tracey Crouch has overseen a fan-led review of football The chief executive of the Football Supporters’ Association, Kevin Miles, said: “The Football Supporters’ Association engaged in the fan-led review from day one and we warmly welcome the historic commitment from the government to introduce an independent regulator of English football. “The football governance white paper clearly addresses our key concerns around ownership, rogue competitions and sustainability, and of course we support any proposals that offer fans a greater voice in the running of their clubs.” “We look forward to engaging with the government on the next steps.” Prime minister Rishi Sunak said: “Since its inception over 165 years ago, English football has been bringing people together, providing a source of pride for communities and inspiration to millions of fans across the country.