Football independent regulator bill to be introduced to UK Parliament in a boost to the EFL amid their ongoing feud with the Premier League over financial redistribution – as Rishi Sunak hails it a ‘historic moment’

A historic bill to bring in football’s independent regulator will be introduced to Parliament on Tuesday – and EFL clubs believe they have already scored a victory.

The move comes at a time when the Premier League and EFL are effectively at war over financial redistribution, with a deal on the issue still far from agreement.

Last week, Mail Sport revealed that 10 top flight sides indicated they would vote against a league-proposed offer of £836m over five years on top of the existing solidarity payments to the EFL. The prospect of legal action – should a regulator try to enforce a solution – had also been discussed.

However, it is understood that the Bill includes a ‘backstop’ which would allow intervention from the regulator to alter the distribution of media revenues.

The backstop had been included in earlier drafts but confirmation of its inclusion is being viewed as a key win by those outside the top flight.

Ten Premier League clubs have rejected a financial settlement for the EFL worth £900million

The regulator has been brought in on the back of the failed attempt to launch a European Super League. Government say the body ‘will be equipped with robust powers revolving around three core objectives: to improve financial sustainability of clubs, ensure financial resilience across the leagues, and to safeguard the heritage of English football’.

Under the Football Governance Bill sterner owners and directors tests will come into play in an attempt to stop clubs falling into the wrong hands while all sides from National League to Premier League will be subject to a licensing system.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said: ‘This Bill is a historic moment for football fans – it will make sure their voices are front and centre, prevent a breakaway league, protect the financial sustainability of clubs, and protect the heritage of our clubs big and small.’

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak welcomes the introduction of the Bill calling it a ‘historic moment’

An EFL spokesperson said: ‘The EFL welcomes today’s arrival of the Football Governance Bill to Parliament in what we hope will be an important milestone to help us secure the long-term financial sustainability of England’s football pyramid.

‘If delivered on the right terms, this landmark legislation can help fix the game’s broken financial model by offering the independent input ultimately needed to help ensure that all clubs can survive and thrive in a fair and competitive environment.’