Britons say taxpayers should not bail out struggling football clubs

A majority of Britons say the government should not use tax money to support professional football and rugby clubs that are on the brink of financial difficulties.

Exclusive research by Ipsos for AM City shows that adults in England think that football teams (67 percent) and rugby teams (66 percent) should not turn to the government for help when things get tough off the field.

It comes amid growing wider concerns around government loans taken out during the pandemic – with millions still to be recovered – and the increasing Americanization of British sport with teams calling on the government to provide taxpayer support to help with stadium projects.

Less than 40 percent of respondents believe that public money should be used to bail out clubs during major crises such as the pandemic, and that number drops to 20 percent for leagues struggling with issues such as broadcast revenue.

“The data reflects a mature and pragmatic public view that football and rugby clubs – and professional teams in general – are commercial entities and should be treated as such,” Professor Rob Wilson said. AM City.

“While we need to recognize the cultural value of sport, this should justify using public money to cover up financial mismanagement. There is no desire to reward failure when vital public services are still under pressure.”

Taxpayer money is sacred

Other data also shows that around one in four adults think the government should use public funds to help clubs – with support strongest among the 18-34 age group and decreasing thereafter – while more non-rugby fans (22 per cent) support union help than non-football fans (12 per cent) support financial help for football clubs.

“It is entirely consistent with the wider attitude towards sports governance that public funds should not be used as a safety net for poorly managed clubs,” added Professor Wilson. “The public understands that administration is not a fluke but is the result of long-term decisions by owners and directors. Responsibility is expected to rest with those who control the finances and not with taxpayers.”

Nearly half of the 1,000 respondents disagreed that regardless of the wealth of their owners, professional sports clubs should receive equal financial assistance from the government if they face financial difficulties, while 50 percent of those questioned acknowledged the importance of sport in tourism, for local communities and a sense of identity.

“The public clearly accepts that if state money is used, it must meet strict conditions,” Prof Wilson concluded. “This reflects a strong belief in fairness and accountability rather than a rejection of support in principle. The community wants assurances that clubs cannot access public funds without first demonstrating financial discipline and credible payment channels.”