Fair Game Annual Conference 2025

The Workshops
Wednesday 28 May @AFC Wimbledon

Block One: 10am-11.30am

Fan stream: How do we address ticket pricing and affordability?
As ticket prices continue to rise, many fans are being priced out of the game. How can clubs balance revenue generation with affordability and accessibility? Facilitator: Rachel Martin (Tottenham Supporters Trust)

Equality and ethics stream: How big an issue is state-ownership of football clubs, and is sportswashing important?
State-backed takeovers of football clubs have raised ethical questions. Does football have a moral responsibility to act, or should money be the only deciding factor? Facilitator: Nick McGeehan (Fair Square)

Governance stream: What would an ideal governance code look like?
Good governance is the foundation of a strong football system. This session will explore what best practice looks like and how football can implement meaningful reforms. Facilitator: Greg Campbell (Campbell Tickell)

Finance stream: How can compensation for player development be fair?
Smaller clubs and academies often struggle to benefit from the players they develop. Are solidarity payments and training compensation fit for purpose and what is the alternative? Facilitator: Josh Price (Goal Assist)

Club stream: How do you balance ambition and sustainability?
Every club wants to grow, but unchecked ambition has led to financial collapses. How can clubs invest and compete without risking long-term stability? Facilitator: Angus Fox (Dons Trust)

Block two: 11.45am-1.15pm

Fan stream: Should the regulator define a minimum standard for fan engagement?
What role should the independent regulator play in ensuring clubs properly consult their supporters on key decisions? This session will explore how to set enforceable engagement standards. Facilitator: Nick Elsom (Fair Game)

Equality and ethics stream: How can you tackle sexism in men’s professional football?
From abuse in stadiums to barriers in the boardroom, sexism remains deeply embedded in men’s football. This panel will look to define what real change looks like and how it can be achieved. Facilitator: Cathy Long (Apostos)

Governance stream: How can professional football be environmentally friendly?
Environment is rapidly becoming the No 1 issue on the planet, but how can such an important agenda fit into the business model of professional football clubs? Facilitator: Elliot Arthur-Worsop (Football For Future)

Finance stream: Fair financial flow – how should the £3.2bn be distributed?
With billions flowing through the football pyramid, is the money being distributed fairly? This discussion will look to develop a holistic model that strengthens the game and benefits the whole pyramid. Facilitator: Niall Couper (Fair Game)

Club stream: Fixture congestion – what are the problems, and how can you fix it?
As football’s calendar becomes increasingly packed, players and clubs are feeling the strain. What are the solutions to managing fixture congestion without harming competition. Facilitator: Damian Irvine (Ebbsfleet United)

Block three: 2.30-4pm

Fan stream: What is a fan? And who should be consulted?
As football evolves, so does the role of the fan. This session explores who gets a voice in football decision-making and how fan representation can be strengthened at club and national levels. Facilitator: Nick Elsom (Fair Game)

Equality and ethics stream: How can football clubs be a safe and inclusive space for supporters?
Discrimination remains a major issue in football. This session will focus on how clubs, leagues, and governing bodies can create a truly inclusive matchday experience for all fans. Facilitator: Anuk Teasdale (AFC Wimbledon)

Governance stream: What support do clubs need to move to a regulatory environment?
With the introduction of an independent regulator, clubs will face new oversight and compliance requirements. This session will look at what guidance and resources clubs need to adapt. Facilitator: Bernadette Young (Indigo)

Finance stream: How can you control players’ wages?
With player salaries skyrocketing, clubs face sustainability challenges. Is a salary cap the answer, or are there alternative solutions to financial fair play? Facilitators: Josh Price (Goal Assist) and Tony Sharkey (Football Transfer Forum)

Club stream: Is multi-club ownership fair?
More and more clubs are being swept up into multi-club models—but what does this mean for competition, integrity, and financial sustainability? What are the pros and cons and how do you mitigate them? Facilitator: Steve Menary