Points Deduction Drops Foxes to Relegation Fight
Leicester City have been docked six points by the English Football League for breaching financial rules, immediately plunging the club from 17th to 20th in the Championship. The Foxes are now clinging to safety, only above the relegation zone on goal difference. The penalty stems from a Premier League charge in May over profit and sustainability (PSR) rules covering the three years up to 2023-24.
The club, recently relegated from the Premier League, is currently without a permanent manager following Marti Cifuentes’ January exit. In a statement, Leicester described the sanction as “disproportionate” and said they are reviewing their options, emphasizing their commitment to a fair resolution.
Financial Overspend Behind the Sanction
Under PSR rules, clubs cannot lose more than £105 million over three years, with reductions applied for seasons outside the top flight. Leicester’s accounts for the period ending June 2024 revealed a £19.4 million loss, adding to £89.7 million lost in 2022-23 and a record £92.5 million in 2021-22. The EFL considered these figures alongside allowable “add backs” for investments such as stadium infrastructure and women’s football programs.
The commission agreed Leicester should be assessed over 36 months, rather than 37, resulting in an overspend of £20.8 million above the £83 million EFL limit. Although a maximum 12-point deduction was possible, the committee settled on six points in light of the club’s improving financial position during the period.
Survival Becomes the New Priority
On the pitch, Leicester have struggled, losing three of their last four Championship games under interim coach Andy King. With the six-point penalty now official, the club’s focus has shifted from promotion ambitions to simply avoiding relegation to League One.
BBC Radio Leicester’s Jack Rafferty noted that while six points could have been worse, the deduction reflects the precarious state of the team, already struggling in recent matches. The uncertainty surrounding the financial saga is now resolved, giving the squad, board, and incoming manager a clear understanding of what is needed: fight for survival in the Championship.
