Independent Football Regulator chair says he will resign if political pressure affects Manchester City case
Kogan said any political interference would force his resignation as the regulator awaits the outcome of Manchester City’s appeal over alleged 2009–2018 breaches.
On 14 October 2026 David Kogan, chair of the Independent Football Regulator in England, said he would resign if political pressure affected the regulator’s handling of the Manchester City case. The warning came as the regulator awaits the outcome of the club’s appeal against findings of breaches covering 2009–2018.
Regulator stresses independence
Kogan was asked whether relations between the British government and the United Arab Emirates might influence the regulator’s procedures. His reply underlined the boundary he draws between politics and the regulator’s work.
"Our independence is absolute, as is my personal independence. I have made it clear that any form of political interference in the way we work will lead to my resignation," he said.
According to the regulator, an independent panel concluded that Manchester City breached Premier League financial rules for the 2009–2018 period. The club has appealed that finding and the regulator is waiting for the final outcome before taking any further steps.
Possible sanctions, depending on the final decision, range from a substantial fine and points deduction to much tougher disciplinary measures. The investigation accused the club of providing false financial information and inflating income through commercial agreements over nearly a decade.
Manchester City disputes the panel’s conclusions and continues to defend its position through the appeals process. The case is described as one of the biggest financial hearings in the history of English football and remains closely watched by clubs and supporters.
Photo: press material from the event
