Goal or Own Goal? HMRC’s £90m Football Tax Crackdown Explained

HMRC has ramped up its investigations into football clubs, players, and agents—and it’s paying off. With £90 million recovered last year, the tax authority is leaving no stone unturned. From R&D claims to agent fees, here’s what it all means for the football world.

HMRCFOOTBALLTAX INVESTIGATION

The Tax Faculty

10/14/20253 min read

Here at the office, football is always a hot topic—our managing director is a lifelong fan, so when news broke about HMRC stepping up its scrutiny of clubs, players, and agents, it immediately caught our attention.

Last year alone, HMRC recovered £90 million in unpaid taxes, a third more than the previous year. That’s not just a hefty sum; it’s a reminder that mistakes or creative accounting in football aren’t just theoretical—they have real consequences.

The investigations have focused on 12 clubs, 90 players, and 16 agents, with HMRC making sure everyone is paying their fair share. Some of the spotlight has fallen on R&D tax relief claims, which clubs have attempted to use for activities like player training programs or analytics. HMRC is now scrutinising these claims carefully, and rightly so—without clear justification and what at first glance seemed like a clever tactic could quickly become an expensive mistake. Agent fees are also being examined, particularly where an agent represents both a club and a player. Dual representation might seem convenient, but HMRC is watching closely to ensure that fees are classified correctly and taxes are properly paid.

For clubs, players, and agents alike, the consequences of getting it wrong can be serious.

Clubs may face penalties, players could be liable for back taxes, and agents could find themselves navigating complicated disputes. The lesson here is clear: off the pitch, transparency and compliance are just as important as performance on it. Although staff at The Tax Faculty may not agree on the same team to support, they are in agreement that the safest strategy in this instance, is always to seek professional advice.

With the right guidance, football professionals can focus on the game rather than worrying about unexpected tax liabilities.

HMRC’s intensified focus on the football industry serves as a reminder that while the sport is thrilling on the field, the financial side demands equal attention. Staying informed, following the rules, and consulting trusted experts is the winning strategy for anyone involved in the game.

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Capital Gains Tax Expertise: The Tax Faculty LLP Managing Partner Charles Tateson Named UK Capital Gains Tax Advisor of the Year 2023

The Finance Monthly Taxation Awards recognises the achievements of tax professionals from around the globe.

Winning such an award is no small feat. It is a reflection of hard work, extensive knowledge, and an ability to navigate the intricacies of the UK tax system.

Read more about Charles and the award here.

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