DCMS Committee announces evidence session on Wembley Stadium and the future of English football

In recent weeks, both the Government and Sport England have offered their provisional support for the proposed sale of Wembley Stadium. Greg Clarke, the Chairman of the Football Association, has committed to spending the proceeds – predicted to be as much as £600 million – on grassroots football facilities. This includes the purchase of approximately 1,500 new pitches, improved drainage systems and floodlighting.

Wembley Stadium is a national asset, and its proposed sale is a move of considerable public importance. Therefore, the Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee has decided to hold a one-off evidence session on the future of Wembley, planned to be held on the 18^th July. 

Damian Collins MP, Chair of the Committee, said:

"Wembley is the home of English football, built in part using public money. There should be some public scrutiny of any decision to sell the stadium and how proceeds from this could be invested to benefit the long-term future of the game.

“The Committee is interested in understanding the details of the FA's proposals and receiving evidence from people who may hold alternative views."

Invitations have been issued to the DCMS Minister responsible for sport, Tracey Crouch MP, and representatives from the Football Association and Sport England, to give evidence. The Committee is also welcoming written submissions from interested parties on the following aspects:

• What risks would be incurred by the sale of Wembley Stadium?
• What benefits would be derived from the sale of Wembley Stadium?
• If Wembley Stadium were to be sold, how should the proceeds be used?
• What impact would the sale of Wembley Stadium have on the future of English football?

You can submit written evidence via the link here until 5pm on 28^th June.