Kogan pledges to quit over political interference as regulator warns on club finances

David Kogan, chairman of the Independent Football Regulator, says he would resign if politicians tried to influence its handling of Manchester City's case. Speaking to BBC Sport, he said no politician had attempted to interfere and that the watchdog's decisions would follow its statutory process, rather than comments from political figures.

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The regulator is waiting for the outcome of City's appeal before deciding whether it needs to investigate or use its powers. BBC Sport reported that an independent commission found the club had breached Premier League financial rules between 2009 and 2018. City maintain their innocence and have appealed, leaving the findings subject to challenge.

Kogan said the watchdog's remit covers the suitability of individual owners, directors and senior executives to run clubs. If the commission's findings are upheld, the regulator would have to consider whether a sale should be required. He stressed that it could not reach a conclusion before the appeal outcome. A separate sanctions hearing will determine the club's punishment, which City can also appeal.

His comments came as the regulator published its State of the Game report on financial pressures across English football. According to BBC Sport's account of the research, 94% of clubs in the top five divisions made losses in 2025-26. More than 60% of EFL and National League clubs had liabilities greater than the book value of their assets.

The report also highlighted dependence on owners to keep clubs operating. It found that 66% could not survive beyond 90 days without additional owner funding, while 29% could not last more than 30 days. The regulator urged clubs to prepare contingency plans in case that support is withdrawn, alongside action to address rising losses.

The Premier League and EFL have yet to agree a new funding settlement despite years of negotiations. The regulator can impose a deal and said it would consider using its powers if football cannot reach a solution. BBC Sport reported that the Premier League, EFL, Football Association and Football Supporters' Association all welcomed the report's findings.