IFR Chair Stands Firm: No Political Pressure Will Force Resignation

David Kogan, the chair of the Independent Football Regulator (IFR), has made it clear that any political pressure regarding Manchester City's financial breaches will lead to his resignation. He stated, "my independence is absolute," highlighting the importance of keeping the regulator free from outside influence. Kogan's comments come in light of Manchester City being found guilty of violating Premier League financial rules over a nine-year span. If the verdict stands after the ongoing appeal, Kogan has the authority to remove City’s ownership, the Abu Dhabi United Group (ADUG). Yet, concerns linger about potential political intervention due to the ownership's ties to the Abu Dhabi government. However, Kogan dismissed these worries, affirming, "We’ve come under absolutely no political pressure whatsoever on this or any other topic." His statements were made during the launch of the long-awaited State of the Game report, which outlines the financial hurdles facing English football. The City case looms large as the regulator gears up to introduce a new licensing system for clubs later this season. Kogan explained that the IFR has the power to assess not just club owners but also their fitness to run clubs, emphasizing the need for thorough investigations based on detailed information. If an owner fails to meet the standards of integrity and financial responsibility, the regulator could mandate the sale of the club. Kogan noted, "We deal with issues of this type much more frequently than you might realize," and mentioned that any legal challenges would see clubs covering the costs through a funding levy. The State of the Game report highlights the growing revenue disparity in the Premier League, where the top-earning club rakes in 605 times the revenue of the lowest in the National League. Financial losses are widespread, with 94% of the 116 clubs monitored by the IFR reporting deficits in the 2025-26 season. Kogan pointed out that several external factors, such as the expansion of the club calendar and rising interest rates, are influencing football’s financial landscape. However, he believes a significant step forward could be achieved by establishing a fair redistribution agreement between the Premier League and the EFL. While he acknowledges the Premier League’s justification for parachute payments following relegation, Kogan argues these payments have caused significant distortions over the years. He suggested that reducing parachute payments while increasing overall funding for all clubs could help alleviate these issues, leading to a more balanced financial ecosystem. The Premier League welcomed the report, stating it recognizes the league's global stature and its role in the football pyramid. They highlighted a recent proposal for financial redistribution to the EFL, reportedly worth £320 million annually, as a step towards meeting the IFR's goals. The EFL echoed these sentiments, asserting that English football generates enough revenue to support both a prosperous Premier League and a robust lower league system. They expressed commitment to working collaboratively with both the Premier League and the regulator to achieve a fair financial agreement. In response to the report, Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, Lisa Nandy, emphasized the need for football authorities to take the findings seriously, stating they have "blown the doors off the game" and urging a focus on the greater good for fans and communities.