Explainer: An independent regulator is coming to English football - here’s what it means

The UK Government published its long-awaited White Paper on football governance that lays out the criteria and responsibilities for an independent regulator ahead of legislation.

The regulator will have “primary duties” around club sustainability, systematic stability and cultural heritage. But the government only want it to be used as a “last resort” on some of the big issues facing the game.

Why it matters: Although English football is in “a world-leading position”, financial and governance problems have afflicted the sport and a regulator seeks to keep these under control.

The perspective: The White Paper “represents the most radical overhaul of football governance…” according to DCMS Secretary of State, Lucy Frazer. Our analysis, however, found it lacking in detail and ducking big questions on redistribution.