Football fans have hailed a “historic moment” for English football after a bill to establish an independent football regulator became law.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the bill was a “proud and defining moment for English football” and will usher in a “stronger, fairer future” for the game.
“This is an historic moment for football in this country,” said Football Supporters’ Association (FSA) chief executive Kevin Miles.
The Football Governance Act will grant powers to a body that is independent from government and football authorities.
It received Royal Assent on Monday, which means it has passed into law and establishes the regulator to oversee the men’s game in England’s top five divisions.
The regulator was a recommendation of a fan-led review into the game and a similar bill was introduced in March 2024 by the then Conservative government, but it failed to pass through Parliament before a general election was called in May. The Labour government reintroduced the bill four months later.
The regulator will be launched later this year. The government said the football industry would be consulted before changes are brought into force.
“Our landmark Football Governance Act delivers on the promise we made to fans. It will protect the clubs they cherish, and the vital role they play in our economy,” Starmer added.
As well as improving financial sustainability across the football pyramid, the regulator will also stop clubs from joining breakaway competitions, like the attempted European Super League proposal in 2021, which was roundly condemned by fans.
In its passage through Parliament, there was opposition from some Conservatives. West Ham United vice chair Karren Brady told the House of Lords there were “dangers lurking” in the bill, arguing it would affect competition. The Premier League was also critical of the need for a regulator.
Speaking to BBC sports editor Dan Roan, Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said: “This is a huge moment for football fans because we’ve had far too many clubs including mine, Wigan Athletic, at risk from poor ownership and finances.
“This is the moment football fans can breathe a sigh of relief because we are fixing the foundations of football and putting fans back at the heart of the game where they belong.”