Of Martin Graham
The incoming football regulator may force the owners of inadequate clubs to sell as a “final measure”, according to his recently named President, David Kogan. He confirmed that discussions are being made to ensure the powers needed to intervene in cases such as Sheffield Wednesday Difficulties.
Kogan met with four groups of supporters connected to the southern Yorkshire and stated his understanding of his situation. The championship dress has supported repeated financial problems in 2025, including five separate delays in salary payments, the most recent one in September.
“Sheffield Wednesday has been a considerable challenge for the English and Sports Football League in general,” Kogan told BBC Sport. He emphasized the historical importance of the club and said that the regulator seeks to investigate and take action when required.
The owner Dejphon Chansiri stated during the summer that he was open to selling the club, but could not finish a transaction with possible investors. The salary delays prior to March and May led to the imposing EFL sanctions in June, which blocked transfers and loans to three windows. This penalty got up two months later.
Sheffield’s problems on Wednesday stand out the goals of the regulator
Kogan explained that the regulator’s mission is to safeguard clubs and their communities, citing the loyalty of supporters who have been with teams for generations. “I fully understand the position of Sheffield fans on Wednesday, as well as those of other clubs that have faced collapse or almost collapsed since 1992 for reasons that have no relation to their own actions,” he said.
He said that the intervention would take place only after gathering clear evidence and understanding the situation. The preference is to collaborate with the club owners to find solutions, instead of imposing sales immediately.
However, Kogan acknowledged that in recent decades, a minority of owners have managed their clubs irresponsibly and have not been able to plan their future sustainability.
Commitment through the football pyramid
On Wednesday, representatives of 110 clubs attended a meeting to present the responsibilities of the regulator. Kogan described it as “proactive” and said that there was a strong participation of clubs at all levels, from the National League to the Premier League.
He warned that any error in the regulatory process could undermine the important advances made in English football. “If mistakes are made, the rapid progress could disappear very quickly,” he warned, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the stability of the game.
Kogan emphasized the substantial income that has flowed in the sport over the last two decades, but said that there is no safety that will continue, which is essential to manage the financial risk carefully over the coming years.
The cooperation and financial structure of the Premier League
Although the Premier League had previously stated the concerns that regulation could weaken its competitive advantage, Kogan insisted that it support the economic growth of the league and global position. After the meeting, he said that first flight officials had expressed confidence in the regulator’s approach.
From his experience by negotiating great television offers, Kogan warned that emission revenue flows are not guaranteed to remain at current levels. The regulator is expected to help end the deadline between the Premier League and the EFL for financial redistribution.
Kogan explained that the new body will review how football revenue is shared, in order to guarantee stability in all divisions. The two leagues are ready to review the negotiations after several years of parallel.
Consult Kogan’s appointment
Kogan’s appointment is still undergoing a complete investigation of the Commissioner for Public Dating due to his previous donations to the Labor Party in 2020. He financially supported leadership campaigns for Lisa Nandy and the current Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.
He emphasized that his political participation ended once his selection was approved. “I have been transparent with my previous links and those that ended when the Committee confirmed my appointment,” he said.
The government proceeded with its appointment before the investigation was completed due to the urgency to establish leadership. Kogan explained that immediate commitment was needed, as clubs and stakeholders had called for dialogue with the regulator.
