Independent Football Regulator

English football has never been more popular – and with the arrival of the IFR - more regulated.

The Independent Football Regulator (IFR) - established by the Football Governance Act 2025 -  is an independent body intended to protect the long-term health of clubs, ensure owners and directors are fit to serve, and preserve the deep community ties that make English football unique.

Clubs must now navigate a fundamentally different operating environment and a new licensing regime. They are facing rigorous financial assessments, new corporate governance standards and formal obligations to engage with their fans. For owners, directors and senior executives, a new suitability regime will examine who is fit to run a football club, with the IFR empowered to step in where concerns arise.

How we can help

Whether you need strategic advice on IFR licensing and approvals, support with governance structures and fan engagement, or guidance on engaging with the regulator, we’re here to help you stay ahead of the requirements.

With a thorough understanding of the commercial realities of football, we can assist clubs with the practical challenges involved in meeting their new obligations.

Independent Football Regulator timeline

Meet our experts