Government White Paper explained as radical football plan takes shape

Are the Premier League on board?

While the Football Association have “welcomed” the changes, the Premier League are refusing to budge from sitting on the fence.

The Premier League have recognised the significance of the White Paper but have been cautious not to offer its backing until it has considered all aspects of the changes, given the tighter controls and financial demands that will be introduced to affect the top 20 clubs.

A Premier League statement read: “The publication of this White Paper is a significant moment for English football. The Premier League and its clubs will now carefully consider the government’s plan for England to become the first major nation to make football a government-regulated industry. 

“The Premier League, alongside the rest of English football, is a global success. We fully recognise that the passionate support of millions of football supporters is fundamental to our competition. We are proud that our success has been consistently shared for the benefit of the wider game, and of our clubs, who have a positive impact every day in their local communities.

“The Premier League recognises the case for change in football governance and continues to implement stronger and more independent regulation. We are strengthening our ownership rules and are already providing £1.6bn in financial support to the wider game in this current three-year cycle.

“We appreciate the government’s commitment to protect the Premier League’s continued success. It is vital that regulation does not damage the game fans love to watch in the deepest professional pyramid in the world, or its ability to attract investment and grow interest in our game.”