A CROSS‐CASE ANALYSIS ON MODELS OF FOOTBALL GOVERNANCE AND THE INFLUENCE OF SUPPORTER GROUPS
This research investigates different models of football governance across England, Spain and Germany and provides an insight into how different clubs govern the influence of supporter relations. The case study findings identify three new models of football governance: the “ghost” model at Everton; the “barrier to rights” model at Athletic Bilbao; and the “umbrella” model at Schalke. Additionally, the study investigates the role that supporters play in the way a club governs, and in so doing, explores the influence and relationship of different supporter groups.
The subsequent research findings identify five key issues in football governance that obstruct a meaningful relationship with supporters: 1) a lack of constitutional clarity leads to weak football governance; 2) a weakness exist around ungoverned roles on boards and executives; 3) there is weak governance knowledge of the role and responsibilities of supporters; 4) a lack of understanding on the benefits of supporter relations; 5) and that ungoverned groups of non-stakeholder supporters can weaken club operations.
To address these issues, the study proposes the GLOVE model of football governance, which enables clubs to govern and capitalise on a meaningful relationship with their supporters. Football governance under the GLOVE model provides access to different stakeholder groups, types and relationships without compromising the integrity of the business. As a result, the model offers a framework of football governance that reinforces club-supporter relations with a collective responsibility for club operations, finances and decision making.
An essential read for those interested in football ownership, governance the role of supporter groups in clubs across European football. Please access the research by clicking on the link below.
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