Regulator would quit over interference in Man City case
The head of English football's independent regulator says he will resign if he encounters any political interference over Manchester City's future.
David Kogan, head of the Independent Football Regulator (IFR), has stated he would resign if he encounters any political interference in the Manchester City case. As the chairman of the IFR, Kogan possesses the authority to evaluate the legitimacy of club owners and executives. If the independent commission's findings confirming Manchester City's breach of Premier League financial rules are upheld, the regulator would have to determine whether to force a sale.
Recently, Prime Minister Andy Burnham faced criticism for expressing concern about the possibility of Manchester City's Abu Dhabi owners selling the club. When queried about Burnham's comments, Kogan affirmed that the Prime Minister is free to voice his opinions but stressed that the IFR operates independently. No politician has attempted to influence the regulator's decisions regarding the case. If Kogan were to face political pressure over the matter, he affirmed he would resign.
An independent commission found Manchester City to have violated financial rules by secretly funneling over £830 million into their operations between 2009 and 2018 using fake contracts. Despite the club denying the allegations and appealing the decision, City's punishment could range from substantial fines, point deductions, or even expulsion from the Premier League, up to stripping them of the eight trophies earned during the said period.
The independent panel will hold a sanctions hearing to decide the punishment, which may take several months.
Written by urgent.news from BBC Sport Football's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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