September 04, (THEWILL) – Leicester City have successfully appealed against a decision that could have resulted in a points deduction for an alleged breach of English Premier League profitability and sustainability rules (PSR).
The EPL had referred Leicester to an independent commission in March 2024 for a potential PSR violation during the three-year reporting period ending in 2022/2023. The independent appeal board overturned the commission’s initial dismissal of Leicester’s challenge to its jurisdiction.
This ruling means Leicester no longer face the possibility of a points deduction. The club welcomed the decision, stating it supports their position that any action should be pursued according to applicable rules.
The EPL expressed disappointment with the ruling, arguing it undermines PSR enforcement and could allow clubs to avoid accountability. The league stated it would consider further action to maintain fairness among clubs. This decision contrasts with recent points deductions given to Everton and Nottingham Forest for PSR breaches in the same accounting period.
Leicester’s PSR charge was based on financial losses over multiple seasons, including a record loss of £92.5m for the year ending May 31, 2022. The club’s PSR calculation of £129.4m exceeded the threshold by £24.4m, which could have resulted in a significant points deduction before considering any aggravating factors.
The case highlights ongoing debates about financial regulations in football and their enforcement. It remains to be seen how this decision will impact future PSR cases and the EPL’s ability to enforce its rules consistently across all clubs.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
