Karren Brady: On football transfer day, why Brexit will be an own goal for player development

I wanted to write to let you know why I believe the outcome of the referendum is so important, especially for the football industry in Britain.

Cutting ourselves off from Europe would have devastating consequences for the economy and the competitiveness of British football, and would stand in stark contrast to football’s spirit of openness and inclusion.

For clubs, free movement plays a
big role in transfers and players’ contracts.

Players from the EU can sign for
UK clubs without needing a visa or special work permit, making it quicker and easier to secure top talent from across Europe to come and play in our leagues.

Indeed, there are nearly 200 Premier League footballers alone who have benefited from this arrangement.

Leaving the EU could have a big impact on foreign players, as independent analysis has shown that two thirds of European stars in England would not meet automatic non-EU visa criteria and therefore might be forced to leave. Losing this unhindered access to European talent would put British clubs at a disadvantage compared to continental sides. Martin Glenn (Football Association chief executive) has said that deteriorating relations between the EU and Britain is one of his “biggest concerns”.

Football fans also get a real benefit from Britain’s membership of the
EU.

Europe’s single market brings us cheaper flights, making it more affordable for fans to see away games across Europe, or to see other European clubs play. EU action to cut roaming charges has reduced fees on phone calls from abroad by 73 per cent, and these charges will be abolished entirely by 2017, meaning that fans can stay up to date with results on their phones at no extra cost.

Free movement, meanwhile, ensures that British fans don’t face visa fees when travelling around Europe.

But this is not just about professional teams and the big leagues, it is also
about our children and the future of the sport.

The EU takes action to promote sports in schools across Europe, and helps the inclusion of minorities and people with disabilities.

Under the Erasmus programme, anyone in Britain with a bright idea for a local football project can get money from the EU to get the ball rolling and make that idea a reality.

Britain has received £1.5m in Erasmus sports funding over the past two years. The Homeless World Cup and the Football League’s social inclusion initiatives are just two examples of brilliant projects that have benefited from these funds.

It is also important for Britain to stay a member of the EU’s numerous sports bodies, which ensure that Britain can draw from experiences and best practice across Europe.

Initiatives include combatting match-fixing, promoting transparency, and action against doping. Cooperation and exchange with other European countries is why Britain’s football policy remains unrivalled and sets international standards.

English, Welsh, Scottish and Northern Irish football gains so much from being in Europe. Clubs and fans all benefit from European action, laws and funding. Leaving the EU would hurt our leagues, create uncertainty for European transfers, and be a step back for the next generation of footballers.

Sitting on the side-lines cannot be an option in this referendum and I would urge you to speak up on the benefits for your club and the game in general. Let me know if you’d like to join the campaign or arrange to get more information from our team.