Political Football: Regulation, Globalization and the Market

Football has been largely exempt from regulatory development but new media and globalization have raised the profile and created new pressures. Clubs offer an important sense of identity for fans, but the impersonality and distance of ownership can create tensions. Corruption in the international governing body is a significant problem, and the sports symbiotic relationship with gambling continues to be a concern. Wyn Grant examines the political economy of football and its uneasy relationship with the market, arguing that more attention from the government is needed.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 27 May 2021
Publisher: Agenda Publishing

Football has largely escaped the scrutiny of regulatory bodies and has been allowed to govern itself. However, the advent of new media has brought the sport to the forefront of public attention, while globalization has intensified the pressures on football clubs as they become pawns in the ambitions of states, consortia, and wealthy individuals. While football clubs provide a crucial sense of identity for fans, the impersonal nature of ownership and the distance it creates can lead to new tensions. Moreover, corruption within the international governing body has been a significant issue, and the symbiotic relationship between sports and gambling continues to raise concerns.

In his book, Wyn Grant delves into the political economy of football and explores the complex relationship between the sport and the market. Grant argues that there are no easy solutions to regulate football, as the complexities of the game and its economic significance demand more attention from government. He highlights the need for a balanced approach that considers the interests of all stakeholders, including players, clubs, fans, and the broader society.

One of the key challenges facing football is the issue of player transfers. The market for football players has become increasingly lucrative, with top players commanding huge transfer fees and salaries. However, this has led to concerns about the exploitation of young players and the potential for corruption in the transfer market. Grant suggests that regulatory bodies should implement stricter rules and regulations to protect the rights of players and ensure that the transfer market is fair and transparent.

Another area of concern is the impact of globalization on football. As football clubs become increasingly globalized, they face new challenges and opportunities. On the one hand, the increased exposure to different markets and cultures can help to expand the fan base and generate more revenue. On the other hand, it can also lead to the homogenization of football and the dilution of local traditions and identities. Grant argues that governments and football organizations should work together to promote the diversity and sustainability of football while also ensuring that the game remains accessible and affordable for all.

In conclusion, football has been largely exempt from the development of the regulatory state and has been left to govern itself. However, the advent of new media and globalization has brought new pressures and challenges to the sport. While football clubs provide a crucial sense of identity for fans, the impersonal nature of ownership and the distance it creates can lead to new tensions. Moreover, corruption within the international governing body has been a significant issue, and the symbiotic relationship between sports and gambling continues to raise concerns. By examining the political economy of football and implementing a balanced approach that considers the interests of all stakeholders, we can strive to ensure that football remains a vibrant and sustainable sport for generations to come.

Weight: 322g
Dimension: 156 x 234 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781788213516