UEFA warns England could be banned from Euro 2028 over regulator concerns

Last year, the previous government announced plans to appoint a regulator after a fan review concluded that such a body was necessary for the long-term financial stability of professional men’s football, following issues including mismanagement and plans for a separate European Super League.

The regulator will oversee a licensing system to ensure clubs are run sustainably, introduce a tougher test for owners and directors and give fans a greater say in key decisions.

But Theodoridis warned Nandy: “UEFA is concerned about the possible extension of the powers of the IFR (independent football regulator).

“While the original purpose of the IFR is to oversee the long-term financial sustainability of clubs and heritage, there is always a risk that once established the IFR will expand its remit beyond these areas.”

That could “undermine the established structures and processes of the sport and amount to government interference,” he wrote.

He added that it was “absolutely necessary to protect and maintain the independence of the FA” and that legislation which “compromises the autonomy of the FA as the primary regulator of football in England” was not in accordance with the statutes of UEFA and FIFA.

“It follows that the criteria defining and evaluating the independence of the IFR must be carefully drafted to avoid any potential conflict with the role of the FA. This is necessary to avoid sanctions under the UEFA and FIFA statutes.

“The scope of the IFR must remain focused on the long-term financial sustainability of clubs, to ensure that the IFR does not enter areas that could be seen as external interference in football governance.”

Theodoridis also warned Nandy that provisions in the legislation requiring the regulator to take into account the government’s foreign and trade policy objectives when determining the suitability of prospective owners “raise specific concerns”.

He added that UEFA “respectfully seeks further clarification and understanding… in this context to ensure compliance with the UEFA Statutes and avoid undesirable implications for football governance”.