Earlier this year, the ICAEW Entertainment, Sport and Media Community hosted a landmark live event at Chartered Accountants’ Hall, bringing together experts from football, finance, government and Parliament to explore the future of football governance and financial sustainability.
With over 800 people registered to attend in person and online, the event – chaired by Adam Edelshain – featured a high-profile panel:
- Kieran Maguire, academic, author and host of 'The Price of Football' podcast
- Jonathan Brown, Co-Lead of Sports Advisory at Ankura Consulting
- Adam Crockett, Deputy Director of Football Regulation Policy at DCMS
- Dame Caroline Dinenage DBE MP, Chair of the Culture, Media and Sport Committee
Together, they delivered a wide-ranging and timely discussion on the financial pressures facing clubs, the role of regulation, and the future of the football pyramid.
What was covered?
The panel explored the growing financial divide in English football, the challenges of cost control, and the creative accounting practices used to navigate Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR). They also examined the Government’s Football Governance Bill and the proposed independent regulator — including its powers, purpose and potential impact on clubs, fans and investors.
Kieran Maguire offered a data-driven look at club finances and the risks of unsustainable spending. Jonathan Brown shared insights from recent PSR cases and how enforcement is evolving. Adam Crockett outlined the regulator’s design and goals, while Dame Caroline Dinenage reflected on the bill’s political journey and the importance of fan engagement.
The evening concluded with a lively Q&A session, where panellists responded to audience questions on topics including the women’s game, international comparisons, and the future of club ownership.
Why revisit this now?
This event offered a rare opportunity to hear from those shaping the future of football – from policy and regulation to financial oversight and fan representation. Whether you work in finance, sport, media or policy, the session provides valuable insight into one of the most significant developments in UK sport today.
Watch on-demand
If you missed the event or want to revisit the discussion, the full recording is available to watch on demand.
