David Kogan, a media industry veteran, is set to be formally approved as the chair of the UK’s Independent Football Regulator (IFR), with an announcement expected in the coming days. Sources suggest the approval could happen as soon as this week, although the timeline may shift slightly. Following the approval, Kogan is anticipated to face a committee of MPs for a confirmation hearing early next month.
Kogan brings extensive experience in English football, having worked with top football organizations such as the Premier League, English Football League (EFL), Scottish Premier League, and UEFA on television rights deals. He was also the lead negotiator for the Women’s Super League and Championship’s recent five-year broadcasting agreements with Sky and the BBC.
The creation of the IFR, which will be based in Manchester, is a significant part of the football governance reform currently advancing through Parliament. The regulator aims to address financial and governance issues within the sport and will play a key role in the oversight of English football, marking one of the most significant changes in its history.
Although Kogan will not manage the day-to-day operations of the regulator, his role will be part-time, with a focus on appointing a chief executive who will handle the regulator’s daily activities. The Premier League has allocated nearly £4 million to staff roles dedicated to liaising with the IFR, and the hiring process for these positions is currently underway.
Concerns and Controversies
Kogan’s appointment has raised concerns among EFL clubs. Critics argue that his past close relationship with former Premier League CEO Richard Scudamore, where he worked as a media rights adviser from 1998 to 2015, may lead to biases. A key function of the IFR will be issuing licenses to clubs, ensuring their financial sustainability. However, the most controversial aspect of the regulator’s role is its power to intervene in the financial disputes between the Premier League and the EFL, particularly regarding parachute payments. This power is expected to require a high level of independence to ensure fair enforcement.
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