Starmer stands firm on football regulator plans despite Uefa threatening Euros host ban
Sir Keir Starmer is standing firm on his plans for an independent football regulator despite a threat from Uefa to ban England from hosting the 2028 Euros.
The prime minister has expressed confidence that the plans do not breach rules on government interference.
He said he was “sure” ministers could “find a way through” in talks with the governing body after it voiced concerns that the proposals could threaten the autonomy of sport.
It follows a warning from Uefa General Secretary Theodore Theodoridis that the plans, set out in the Football Governance Bill, could lead to England’s exclusion from the union.
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That severe sanction would mean clubs would no longer be able to compete in the Champions League and other European competitions, including the Euro 2028 tournament England is set to co-host.
Asked whether he would change government plans for a football regulator in response to Uefa’s concerns, Sir Keir told reporters travelling with him to Rome: “I don’t think there’s any problem with the rules, because this is a truly independent regulator.
“But as you’d expect, we’re talking to Uefa, and I’m sure we’ll find a way through this, but I’m confident that our rules are perfectly consistent, and that the regulator is truly independent.
“But of course we’re talking to Uefa to make sure that we can ensure that everything is possible.”
Asked if he was seeking to persuade Uefa that the government’s plans did not amount to a breach of the rules, the prime minister said: “I mean, I don’t think it does, I don’t think it’s a problem.
“But of course, we’ll talk to them if they’ve got concerns. I think they’ve slightly reduced their concerns as time has gone on, but obviously I’ll discuss their concerns.”
The Football Governance Bill was first introduced under the previous Tory administration and adopted by Labour after the election.
It includes measures to establish an independent regulator to address the financial resilience of clubs and prevent breakaway leagues.
In a letter reported by The Times, Mr Theodoridis has written to Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy, saying there should be “no government interference in the running of football” and that an independent regulator could lead to England’s exclusion from Uefa.
It is understood the Department for Culture, Media and Sport will respond to the letter shortly and that there have been no previous concerns raised by Uefa, which has been engaging alongside the FA with the new government over the development of the Bill.
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