Overview
- David Kogan, a media veteran with extensive experience in football broadcasting rights, is set to become the first chair of the Independent Football Regulator (IFR), pending parliamentary approval.
- Lisa Nandy, the culture, media, and sport secretary, is expected to finalize the appointment within days, though the DCMS officially states the recruitment process is ongoing.
- The IFR is part of the Football Governance Bill, which has passed the House of Lords and is awaiting debate in the House of Commons, with Royal Assent anticipated before the summer recess.
- The Manchester-based regulator was conceived after the failed European Super League and aims to oversee financial redistribution, fan engagement, and club ownership in English football.
- The IFR has strong backing from Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and faces resistance from some top-tier clubs concerned about its scope and impact.