Mustafa Suleyman’s timely book The Coming Wave discusses the combinational technologies that will define our future. One quote particularly stood out: “I’ve often heard it said that technology is ‘value neutral’ and that its politics arise from its use. This is so reductive and simplistic that it’s almost meaningless.”
I agree and was thinking similarly that football extends beyond the pitch, weaving itself into the very fabric of our societal, cultural and, most unmistakably, political realities. The notion that sports can exist in a vacuum, devoid of the world’s complexities and challenges, is not only implausible but naive. Football, as exemplified by the controversies surrounding the World Cup in Qatar, encompassing debates over workers’ rights, environmental practices and discrimination based on sexual orientation, has proven a catalyst for a larger global discourse.
The bill for an independent regulator in English football was brought to parliament this week and highlights the inherently political nature of the sport. This debate goes beyond the scope of administrative oversight; it probes deeper, challenging the essence of the game’s existence and for whom it is truly meant. This reveals football’s embeddedness in broader societal and political conversations, as we question the balance between commercialism and community.
The recent inability of Premier League teams to make an enhanced financial offer to the EFL to support the long-term sustainability of the game demonstrates an acute market failure and is a metaphor for the current capitalist system where those at the top fail to see beyond their own narrow self-interest. It is critical the regulator is given the powers to ensure the game becomes financially sustainable.
Sceptics who advocate separating football from sociopolitical issues overlook the interconnection between our identities and the sport. Football clubs are not just teams; they are mirrors reflecting our communities, struggles and aspirations. In an era when traditional identifiers are frequently under scrutiny or tainted by controversy, football stands out as a powerful emblem of communal identity. Expressing faith, political allegiance or national pride has become increasingly complex, given the challenges of scandal, ineptitude or extremism other institutions have faced.
In other countries, some clubs have been platforms for political and social expression, aligning with ideologies across the spectrum. St Pauli, in Hamburg, stand out for their vocal political and social activism. Deeply embedded in their neighbourhood’s leftist and punk culture, St Pauli actively oppose commercialism, racism, fascism, sexism and homophobia, making their stadium a beacon for social justice.
Similarly, Rayo Vallecano, hailing from Vallecas, a working-class area in Madrid with a legacy of resistance during the Spanish civil war, are celebrated for their left-leaning stance. The club and the supporters, known as Los Rayistas, are committed to social justice and activism, reflecting the neighbourhood’s historical values.
On the other end of the spectrum, Beitar Jerusalem in Israel, founded in 1936 and linked to the Beitar and Revisionist Zionist movements, represents right-leaning politics. The club’s supporters, displaying strong Israeli nationalist sentiments, often lean towards right-wing ideologies.
Closer to home, the Premier League, with its worldwide allure, encapsulates the battle between globalisation and local tradition. While its international popularity is undisputed, this often comes at a significant cost to local supporters. These fans face challenges such as inconvenient game schedules and steep ticket prices, highlighting a conflict between commercialism and community traditions.
This dilemma is mirrored in political debates. One example: to cater to a global audience, matches are sometimes scheduled at times that are less than ideal for local fans. A game kicking off at 8pm on a Saturday suits viewers in Australia, but it may inconvenience Manchester fans who find themselves stranded in Sheffield, grappling with limited train services typical of UK weekends. Additionally, the high demand and inflated ticket prices in the secondary market can make attending a Premier League match prohibitively expensive for many families, with costs sometimes surpassing £100 per person.
Although these may seem like minor inconveniences compared with the league’s global commercial achievements, they prompt significant reflection on the values we prioritise as a society and the intended beneficiaries of the game.
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Grimsby Town, with its working-class roots, presents a complex political landscape that defies categorisation along party lines. The town was a stronghold of Labour support for 74 years. However, recent political shifts, including a significant pro-Brexit vote of 73% and the election of a Conservative MP, signal a change in political allegiances.
Since May 2021, when we came into Grimsby Town, we have welcomed people from across the political spectrum to Blundell Park: from the secretary of state, Lucy Frazer, or a visit from Rishi Sunak that was cancelled three hours before he was due to arrive, to holding community workshops led by organisers from the Common Good foundation and our friends at East Marsh United. We have opened our doors to reflect the broad appeal of a football club.
Last year, I made a decision not to pursue an opportunity to stand for selection as an MP. I believe the qualities and commitment required for this role are very specific and differ significantly from those of entrepreneurs, who typically excel in more flexible, unconventional work environments. However, recognising the importance of connecting innovation with governance, I have committed to supporting the Labour party by trying to mobilise the tech and entrepreneur communities. This initiative enables me to unite those sectors in backing a future Labour government. I see this as a vital step in encouraging discussions that are essential for the development of progressive, forward-looking government policies.
Although football clubs can take a political stance I believe it is important individuals do not make that decision on behalf of the whole community. My political beliefs are a personal matter and are kept distinct from my professional responsibilities at the club. However, I also believe in the importance of standing by my principles in all aspects of my life. This balance allows me to contribute meaningfully to our community while honouring my convictions, ensuring that my role with GTFC remains focused on unity and positive growth but being able to speak out where I believe change is needed.