What's Happening?
Sanjay Bhandari, the chair of Kick It Out, has announced his decision to step down at the end of the 2026-27 season. Bhandari, who has served as chair since 2019, will leave after more than seven years in the role. During his tenure, he was awarded an MBE
for his contributions to football and has been instrumental in transforming the organization. Under his leadership, Kick It Out achieved financial independence, improved governance, and restructured its board and leadership team. The organization will begin recruiting a new chair, who will work alongside Bhandari until the end of the season before taking over on July 1, 2027.
Why It's Important?
Bhandari's departure marks a significant transition for Kick It Out, an organization dedicated to promoting equality and inclusion in football. His leadership has been pivotal in enhancing the organization's influence and effectiveness in addressing discrimination in the sport. The recruitment of a new chair will be crucial in maintaining the momentum and continuing the progress made under Bhandari's guidance. This change in leadership could impact the organization's strategies and initiatives, influencing how it tackles issues of diversity and inclusion in football. The new chair will play a vital role in shaping the future direction of Kick It Out and its efforts to create a more inclusive environment in sports.
What's Next?
Kick It Out will focus on finding a suitable candidate to succeed Bhandari, with the recruitment process expected to conclude by December. The new chair will need to build on Bhandari's legacy, working closely with the board and chief executive to further the organization's mission. This transition period will be critical in ensuring continuity and stability within Kick It Out, as it continues to advocate for equality and inclusion in football. The organization's future initiatives and partnerships will likely be influenced by the new leadership, potentially leading to new approaches in addressing discrimination in sports.
