Leicester City in relegation danger after six-point deduction for financial rules breach

Leicester City have been deducted six points after being found in breach of the Premier League’s financial rules. The punishment, determined by an independent disciplinary commission, leaves them outside the Championship relegation zone on goal difference.

A hearing took place in November after Leicester were alleged to have breached profitability and sustainability regulations for the three-season period ending with 2023-24. There were also two further charges against the club for failing to cooperate and failing to submit their financial accounts on time.

Leicester drop to 20th in the Championship, level on points with West Bromwich Albion, who occupy the final relegation spot, and Blackburn Rovers.

With Leicester outside of the Premier League, the English Football League issued the punishment with immediate effect. The EFL board met on Thursday to apply the sanction as per regulation 87.7 in its rules, which states the league “has the power to implement sanctions equivalent to those recommended by any independent Premier League commission or appeal board”.

Leicester are considering an appeal. In a statement the club said: “It is with disappointment that Leicester City acknowledges the independent commission’s decision and the club will use the time available to consider its next steps.”

The club said they deemed the penalty “disproportionate”, adding: “We are now reviewing the decision in full and considering the options available to us. We remain committed to engaging constructively and ensuring that any action is fair, proportionate and determined through the appropriate processes.”