‘I’ve got deep concerns’ - Nigel Farage speaks out on Newcastle United owner debate
Nigel Farage has slammed the prospect of a football regulator deciding who can own a club - but admitted to being “concerned” about Saudi Arabian’s growing sporting influence.
In July, the Football Governance Bill was introduced to parliament, outlining the need for an independent body to oversee English football. High-profile figures like former Manchester United captain Gary Neville called for a regular following the failed European Super League fiasco.
Newcastle United’s takeover in October 2021 - as well as Roman Abramovich’s controversial Chelsea exit less than a year later - also reignited the debate over foreign ownership. Likewise, clubs like Bury going bust contributed to the perfect storm being brewed.
The Independent Football Regulator (IFR) could be launched as early as this year once the Bill passes through parliament. However, critics believe further red tape will hinder English football, with the Premier League deeming the proposals unnecessary.
Reform UK leader Farage believes imposing restrictions on state ownership will place the game into a “difficult” position. He told talkSPORT: “The problem with that is you start to move into political judgement, don’t you? Is this person politically acceptable?
“Or are they not? Before you know it, you finish up in a very difficult position. Generally in life, it’s better to let things flow and only intervene if you absolutely have to. The Premier League is the envy of the football world.”
However, the 60-year-old, while welcoming Saudi investment, is less welcoming towards their growing sporting sway. PIF - the sovereign wealth fund that owns 85 per cent of Newcastle - have made waves across football, golf, boxing, MMA, WWE, snooker, Formula 1 and more.
“I worry that, given the vast amount of money that Saudi Arabia have, that we’re going to see more and more boxing matches, snooker games, whatever it may be, taking place in Saudi Arabia,” Farage added. “Do I want Saudi Arabia to be part of a healthy, international sporting community, providing some fixtures? Yes. But buying up the whole thing? I’ve got deep concerns about that.”