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The Future of the Independent Regulator for Football in England - Key Takeaways

Goalkeeper Saving Shot
Thursday, 27 November 2025 Author: Manan Agrawal

This article discusses key regulatory developments following the Football Governance Act 2025 receiving royal assent, with particular focus on enforcement mechanisms, the owners test changes, and preparation strategies for upcoming consultations between the regulator and professional football clubs.

It summarises the discussion in a recent webinar hosted by LawInSport to provide insights and analysis on the future of the Independent Regulator for Football (IFR) in England.

The speakers for this webinar were:

  • Trevor Watkins, Partner, Head of Sports, Pinsent Masons
  • David Thorneloe, Legal Director, Pinsent Masons
  • Raphael Hogarth, Barrister, 11KBW
  • Sean Cottrell, CEO, LawInSport (moderator)

The recording of the webinar is available here[1].

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Written by

Manan Agrawal

Manan Agrawal

LawInSport

Manan is currently the Director of SLAM & Deputy Director of Content at LawInSport and is a media, entertainment and sports lawyer. Before joining LawInSport, Manan practiced law at a leading media and entertainment law firm in Mumbai, India. 

He is also the organiser of LawInSport's Sports Law Arbitration Moot competition which is hosted by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Lausanne, Switzerland. 

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