UEFA warns the UK government that England risks a Euro 2028 ban if the proposed Independent Football Regulator is implemented, citing concerns over government interference.
BollywoodFever: UEFA has issued a warning to the UK government, cautioning that England could face exclusion from the Euro 2028 tournament, which it is set to co-host, if Prime Minister Keir Starmer proceeds with plans to introduce an Independent Football Regulator.
The threat stems from UEFA’s concerns over government interference in the governance of football, according to reports from The Times and the BBC on Saturday.
In a letter addressed to Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy, UEFA’s General Secretary Theodore Theodoridis highlighted that the game’s independence is a “fundamental requirement” under UEFA’s rules.
The letter, obtained by British media, emphasized that the proposed regulator, which would oversee clubs in England’s top five leagues, could jeopardize England’s participation in international competitions.
“One particular area of concern stems from one of UEFA’s fundamental requirements, which is that there should be no government interference in the running of football,” Theodoridis wrote, adding that failure to comply could result in England’s exclusion from UEFA competitions.
The proposal for an Independent Football Regulator, which was outlined in the King’s Speech and supported by Starmer’s Labour government, aims to tackle financial mismanagement within clubs and protect fans.
The concept was first introduced by the previous government following the backlash against wealthy clubs attempting to form breakaway leagues.
The Labour Party reaffirmed its commitment to the regulator after winning the election in July 2024.
Despite UEFA’s objections, a spokesperson for the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport defended the plan, stating that the Football Governance Bill aims to “put fans back at the heart of the game” and ensure English football’s sustainability.
England is set to co-host Euro 2028 alongside Northern Ireland, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales, but UEFA’s threat raises concerns over potential disruptions to the tournament if the regulator proceeds as planned.
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