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New Football Regulator Seeks Powers to Investigate Clubs, Says Forced Sales a Last Resort

A proposed licensing system across the top five tiers would set tests on finances, ownership suitability, fan engagement, and heritage.

Overview

  • New IFR chair David Kogan said he is seeking statutory powers to have struggling clubs referred for investigation and potential action.
  • Kogan called Sheffield Wednesday a significant problem for the game after meeting four of the club’s supporter groups this week.
  • He said compelling an owner to sell would only be used in exceptional circumstances once evidence is gathered and other options are exhausted.
  • Sheffield Wednesday missed multiple wage payments this year, faced EFL registration restrictions in June later partly lifted, saw staff and player departures, and drew protests including a pitch invasion during a 5-0 home loss to Coventry.
  • Unite reported non‑football staff received only £1,000 toward September pay and vowed legal and industrial steps, as owner Dejphon Chansiri signalled willingness to sell but has not secured a buyer; Kogan’s appointment is also under a public appointments inquiry over past political donations.