Last week York City Football Club’s updated Articles of Association were formally adopted and registered on Companies House. This is a significant milestone that marks a new chapter in our club’s journey, one that embodies our unwavering commitment to the principles of supporter engagement and community involvement.
At the heart of this lies a steadfast dedication to safeguarding the rights of supporters by enhancing the rights of the York City Supporters Trust taking them beyond the recommendations of the recent Fan-Led Review of Football Governance as led by Tracey Crouch. It is safe to say that at York City supporters truly own a Golden Share.
The updated Club Articles of Association mean that continued ownership of 25% of A Shares enshrines the Supporters Trust rights:
- Pre-emption rights on the sale of any B Shares put supporters in the driving seat to choose any future majority ownership.
- Loans to the Football club over the value of £200,000 require Supporters Trust approval meaning fans can prevent unsustainable debt.
- Heritage Protections added mean no changes to the football clubs name, nicknames, badge, home colours or the Stadium at which it plays can be altered without written approval from supporters.
- The Supporters Trust is entitled to appoint two members of the football club board when it is made up of six or less persons, should the board exceed 6 the Trust is entitled to appoint members up to the value of at least one third.
- The Club is unable to join any competition not affiliated with FIFA, UEFA, or the FA without prior written consent of the Trust…..so no we will not be joining the European Super League.
Should supporters wish to read new Articles of Association in full they can read them on our website here.
The Partnership Agreement between the Ugglas, 394 Sports and The Supporters Trust was signed in November. In hand with the Articles of Association the Partnership agreement defines how the shareholders work together as partners in the club, the requirements on each party, and the governance structures which determine how the club should operate.
The Partnership Agreement can be read here.
In addition to the updated Articles and following the receipt of funds York City Supporters Trust have transferred the additional 24% of B shares to Julie-Anne Uggla. This means that the Supporter Trust now owns 25% of A Shares in York City Football Club, as approved by Trust members at our SGM in November.
We extend our deepest gratitude to Julie-Anne and Matt Uggla for their unwavering commitment to the growth and prosperity of our community football club. Their dedication to fostering a culture of inclusivity and collaboration has been instrumental in shaping this landmark agreement. Together, we are laying the foundations for a brighter future for York City Football Club, one that is built upon the values of unity, transparency, and shared ambition.
As we embark on this exciting new chapter, we look forward to continuing our journey hand in hand with our loyal supporters, guided by the principles of integrity and mutual respect. Together, we will strive to ensure that York City Football Club remains a beacon of community spirit and sporting excellence for generations to come.
Thank you for your unwavering support.
Keep the Faith.
York City Supporters Trust
About York City Supporters’ Trust
Established in 2002, York City Supporters Trust is a not-for-profit Community Benefit Society, regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. We were formed to protect the long-term future of the football club and represent the interests of the fans. We are also 49% shareholders in York City Football Club Ltd.