Birmingham City respond to allegations of EFL breaches

Birmingham City have responded to charges from the English Football League (EFL) against them and some individuals with alleged breaches of EFL Regulations.

The EFL believe Birmingham some official(s), and persons involved in the potential acquisition of control did not comply with the requirements of the Owners’ and Directors’ Test (OADT).

They allege that people acted as relevant persons and controlled the club without their approval. They believe there is enough evidence to charge those involved with misconduct and other associated breaches.

The EFL has now referred the matter(s) to an independent disciplinary committee, and they have started proceedings. The club responded with a statement acknowledging the charges.

A club statement read: “Birmingham City acknowledges the decision of the EFL and its charges of the club with alleged breaches of EFL Regulations following the conclusion of its investigation into the proposed acquisition of Control.

“The multiple matters will now be referred to an independent Disciplinary Commission. No further comment will be made.”

Birmingham Sports Holdings Limited has owned the Championship club since 2016. The China-based company acquired Birmingham from Trillion Trophy Asia. They became the second successive owners from Asia. 

Birmingham are now up for sale again, and its future the club’s also up in the air following the charges.

Paul Richardson and Maxi Lopez tried to buy the club last year, but the deal never materialised after talks halted in December. Rumours are circulating that the charges involve them.

However, Birmingham’s owners have been negotiating with other unnamed potential buyers. The EFL charges do not mention names.

Birmingham could face a points deduction following the multiple allegations against them. It is not their first rodeo with English football’s governing body.

They suffered a nine-point deduction in 2019 after breaking spending rules. They faced further charges a year later for not keeping to the business plan.