The FA has introduced new rules to help protect the heritage of football clubs in England that will be implemented across the Premier League, EFL, National League [national division], Women’s Super League and Women’s Championship.
The introduction of the new rules for the start of the 2022/23 season follows a consultation process with the relevant Leagues and the Football Supporters Association.
Under the new rules, if a club wishes to make a material change to its club crest, or change its recognised home shirt colours, it must undertake a thorough and extensive consultation process with supporters.
A club must also be able to evidence that a majority of its supporters are in favour of any proposed changes (such as via an independently-run poll of season ticket holders, the club’s Community Benefit Society, and supporters that have attended a certain number of home matches).
In the event a club is found to be in breach of the rules, The FA is able to take appropriate action, such as ordering a club to revert back to a previous crest or home shirt colour combination.
The aim of the new rules is to put supporters at the heart of the decision-making process regarding these important club heritage matters. As part of our ongoing response to the fan led review, we will be continuing a consultation process regarding potential ground relocation rules this season.
