Time for fan ownership of football teams
The controversy surrounding the formation of the European Super League emphasises what happens when greed is allowed to dominate football and the need for fan ownership and representation, according to the Scottish Greens.
In 2015 then Scottish Green MSP Alison Johnstone secured agreement from the Scottish Government that their Community Empowerment Bill would contain powers to introduce a fans' right to buy their football clubs.
In Scotland, various clubs are now owned by supporters, including Motherwell FC, Clydebank and Stirling Albion.
Alison Johnstone the Scottish Greens’ spokesperson on sports said: “The sums of money involved in the European Super League are absolutely eye-watering. Its formation shows what happens when profits and greed are allowed to dominate football. As the famous quote says, football is nothing without the fans, and it is no wonder that so many are opposed to this move."
"In Scotland we were successful in ensuring that fan ownership has been pushed up the agenda. It is a model that has worked around the world, and something that is badly needed to stop the sort of moves we are seeing now."
"Football clubs are community assets and should be in the hands of those who care most about them. With a greater use of fan ownership, and more fan representation, we can ensure that communities are at the heart of our teams and our national sport.”