Birmingham City and the English Football League’s (EFL) legal battle continues as the organisation will appeal the independent Disciplinary Commission’s decision to dismiss Birmingham’s alleged misconduct over an agreed business plan.
The Championship club was deducted nine points last season after breaching financial fair play regulations for suffering losses of £48.8m over a three year period, more than £10m over the limit.
After the charge had been given, Birmingham and the EFL had agreed a business plan in which the club must adhere to or face further penalties.
However, after the Championship governing body felt that Birmingham had broken those rules, the case was dismissed by the Disciplinary Commission. This has ultimately led to the EFL to appeal against the decision.
An EFL spokesperson stated: “The EFL notes the decision made by the independent Disciplinary Commission in dismissing a misconduct charge brought by the EFL against Birmingham City in May 2019.
“That charge alleged the club failed to adhere to elements of a business plan agreed with the club following an earlier breach of Profitability and Sustainability Rules.
“The decision remains subject to appeal and the League will consider the judgment in full before making any further comment.”
EFL’s decision to appeal will be seen as a huge financial blow to Birmingham, especially considering the currently landscape of the footballing world. If the appeal is successful then the club could incur greater penalties such as more severe points deductions or fines.
