Global, sector-focused law firm HFW is advising the Football Supporters’ Association on the UK Government’s review into the governance and ownership of professional football in the country.
The FSA – the UK’s representative body for football supporters – is proposing a new governance model that includes an independent regulator, financial controls on clubs, and ongoing monitoring of individuals. HFW is advising the FSA on how these concepts operate in the financial services sector, and how they can be applied to professional football.
The UK Government’s review was announced in the wake of several recent financial failures at clubs and the proposed launch of a controversial European Super League. The Chair of the review, Tracey Crouch MP, has published her preliminary findings and recommendations, which include many of the FSA’s proposals.
HFW’s financial services regulatory team advising the FSA is led by William Reddie and also includes Dominic Pereira and Astrid Ainley.
William Reddie, Partner, HFW:
“When we saw the FSA’s proposals, it was clear to us that there were many parallels between the model of regulation it was proposing, and our practical experience of what can and does work in the financial services sector. It has been fascinating to apply the rules and principles of financial services regulation, which we advise on every day, to a sector which would really benefit from introducing a similar form of regulation.”
Roger Ellis, Board Member, FSA:
“HFW provided highly valuable support to the FSA team, with specialist input to the proposals for a new Independent Regulator for English Football. FSA are really grateful for the assistance provided.”
To find out more about the government review, visit: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/government-announces-terms-of-reference-for-fan-led-review-of-football. The preliminary findings and recommendations are available here. The FSA’s submission is available here.