Football Association plan to rebrand as the English Football Association

For the first time in its 156-year history, the national football body of England, Football Association is planning to change its name to the English Football Association.



According to emerging reports, outgoing chief executive, Martin Glenn described the name as “the ultimate expression of arrogance” shortly after his appointment in 2015 and is now using his final months in the role to leave his successor a clean slate.

The case for renaming the governing body was discussed by the FA board at its meeting at Wembley on 28th March. However, the rebrand has not yet been signed off with the board, with discussions on the renaming to continue at its next meeting.

According to reports, Glenn and the FA chairman, Greg Clarke, put forward the case for rebranding to reflect the modern role of the organisation. The governance of the game in England would be overseen by the EFA, with the board also reportedly discussing a proposal that would see the 28 England teams, national players, coaches, grassroots football and facilities come under a new ‘England Football’ brand. The FA would remain the organisation’s legal entity name and the name of the holding company.

The move would not prompt the renaming of the FA Cup, FA council, FA board or county football associations.

Founded in 1863, the English body has simply been known as the FA for 155 years, whereas every other national body also has the relevant national adjective.