Fair Game Annual Conference 2025
Day overview: who is it for?
Following a deep dive into governance, finance, and regulation on Day One, today’s programme takes a broader look at football’s future.
Day Two is designed for everyone with a stake in the game—from club executives and policymakers to students and passionate fans. The discussions will explore the key challenges and opportunities shaping modern football, from the introduction of the independent regulator to the ongoing fight for equality, the survival of crisis-hit clubs, and the ever-present spectre of the European Super League.
This day is particularly valuable for:
Football industry professionals looking to understand the future landscape of the game.
Students and early-career professionals aiming to deepen their knowledge and make industry connections.
Supporters and fan groups advocating for fairer, more inclusive football.
Journalists and academics analysing the evolution of the sport.
Club executives and administrators preparing for new regulatory and structural changes.
Equality campaigners and activists working towards a more diverse and inclusive football culture.
day two: Programme
09:00 - 09:45 | Registration
Check in, grab a coffee or breakfast, and connect with fellow attendees before the day’s discussions begin.
09:45 - 09:55 | Conference Welcome
A brief introduction to the themes of the day and the discussions ahead.
10:00 - 11:00 | The Regulator – What Does It Mean for Football?
With an independent regulator set to reshape the football landscape, this panel will examine how it will work, who it will impact, and what it hopes to achieve. Will it create a more sustainable, fairer game, or could it introduce new challenges for clubs and competitions?
Insights from key figures in football governance and regulation.
What clubs need to know as they prepare for change.
The long-term impact on financial oversight, fan engagement, and ownership models.
11:15 - 12:15 | Why Equality Matters – Breaking Barriers in Football
Football is for everyone—but is the sport truly inclusive? This discussion will focus on the ongoing fight for equality in football, from the grassroots to the elite level.
The impact of discrimination and the role of football in driving societal change.
Progress made in tackling sexism, racism, homophobia, and ableism in the game.
What clubs, leagues, and governing bodies must do to make football genuinely inclusive.
12:30 - 13:30 | Crisis Clubs – Can We Stop Clubs from Collapsing?
From historic institutions to lower-league sides, too many football clubs have faced financial ruin. This panel will explore why clubs keep falling into crisis and what solutions exist to protect their future.
Why are clubs still going into administration despite financial regulations?
The role of fan ownership, sustainability models, and governance reform.
Learning from past failures—what needs to change?
13:30 - 14:15 | LUNCH
A chance to network and reflect on the morning’s discussions.
14:15 - 15:15 | The European Super League – Is It Really Dead?
The European Super League (ESL) may have been blocked in its initial form, but the debate over football’s future at the elite level has not gone away. This panel will explore the ongoing push for reform in European football and the potential for breakaway leagues.
Why did the ESL fail, and could it return in a different form?
What’s at stake for clubs, players, and fans?
What lessons should football take from the fallout?
15:30 - 16:30 | In Conversation with… Kelly Simmons
A special session featuring Kelly Simmons, one of the most influential figures in English football development. From growing the women’s game to building more inclusive pathways into the sport, this discussion will explore how football must evolve to remain a game for everyone.
The future of women’s football and professional pathways.
The importance of investment in grassroots and youth football.
How football leadership must evolve to meet modern challenges.
Join us for an inspiring day of thought-provoking discussions, expert insights, and engaging debate as we explore the future of football for everyone.