Karren Brady fully behind major decision that’ll ‘shape football for decades’
Karren Brady has expressed her support for a new change that is set to have huge ramifications for West Ham and the wider football system.
After expressing her support for the appointment of Graham Potter, Brady’s own position at West Ham has been questioned.
The vice-chairman of the Hammers was in full support of the Englishman, despite a shocking start to the season.
Potter was sacked by West Ham just weeks after Brady had reaffirmed her support of the former Chelsea boss, with the Irons turning to Nuno Espirito Santo.
West Ham were sent a letter of no confidence by the Fan Advisory Board in September, with many calling for the departure of Brady and chairman David Sullivan.
Karren Brady backs football regulator
The Football Governance Act is in its final stages, having already received Royal Assent after several readings in the House of Lords and the House of Commons.
The bill, originally introduced by the Conservative government in 2024 before it was finalised by Labour, will create the Independent Football Regulator (IFR).
The IFR is said to hold powers that will introduce new financial regulations, aimed at improving sustainability throughout the football pyramid.
| Football Governance Act | Date |
| First reading (Lords) | 24 Oct 24 |
| Third reading (Lords) | 26 Mar 25 |
| First reading (Commons) | 27 Mar 25 |
| Third reading (Commons) | 8 Jul 25 |
| Royal Assent | 21 Jul 25 |
| David Kogan appointed | 6 Oct 25 |
Situations such as the ongoing one at Sheffield Wednesday should, in theory, be a thing of the past, with stronger tests to be introduced for new club owners and directors.
Writing for The Sun’s print edition on Saturday, Brady expressed her backing for the bill, which she wrote “will shape the future of the game for decades.”
David Kogan has been chosen as the IFR chair, having held several senior positions in the television and sports industries -a decision Brady is in support of.
“Kogan’s team has already been out meeting clubs – including us at West Ham – to discuss how regulation can help the game,” she wrote.
“We urged them to listen to the experience and expertise within the Premier League, where lessons have been learned the hard way over decades.
“Premier League clubs will welcome a regulator if – and it’s a big if – it genuinely improves ownership standards, strengthens fan engagement, protects club heritage, and prevents breakaway leagues.”
Brady’s comments may sting West Ham fans
Brady also made sure to include a comment of self-praise in her discussions about the IFR.
“That’s certainly the case at West Ham, where our shareholders don’t take a salary or dividend and every penny goes back to the playing squad, our staff, our infrastructure, growth and development,” she wrote.
Given West Ham’s struggles over the last couple of seasons, with Sullivan often opting for the cheaper option in the transfer market, the claim may be hard to hear.
Sure, the Hammers have spent money, but it may be suggested that the decision-makers at the London Stadium are in need of closer inspection themselves.
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