Amanda Staveley’s reaction to the Premier League APT rules after Newcastle takeover speaks volumes

Newcastle United could be on the verge of a significant financial boost following a pivotal ruling against the Premier League. An independent tribunal recently sided with Manchester City, deeming the Premier League’s Associated Party Transaction (APT) rules null and void.

These regulations, which had previously limited the financial capabilities of clubs like Newcastle, were struck down after Manchester City challenged the Premier League in court, citing restrictions on two of their sponsorship deals.

This decision could pave the way for Newcastle United to secure lucrative sponsorship agreements, particularly from entities connected to the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF).

The ruling is expected to provide a substantial advantage for Newcastle, whose sponsorship revenue has been comparatively limited under the now-invalidated rules. With the PIF’s backing, the club can now pursue deals that better reflect their growing ambitions and market value.

These developments come as a welcome change for Newcastle supporters, many of whom have voiced frustrations over perceived biases within the Premier League. Some fans even called for Premier League Chief Executive Richard Masters to step down following the tribunal’s decision, citing dissatisfaction with the initial implementation of the APT rules after the Saudi-backed takeover of Newcastle in 2021.

While the decision undoubtedly benefits Newcastle, it does not completely free the club from financial oversight. UEFA’s Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations will still govern their spending, especially if the team qualifies for European competitions such as the Champions League.

This additional layer of scrutiny ensures that Newcastle must balance their newfound financial freedom with compliance to avoid potential sanctions.

The saga surrounding the APT rules has reignited discussions about the role of Amanda Staveley, the former Newcastle co-owner, in the club’s development. Staveley, who played a crucial role during her two-and-a-half-year tenure at the club, worked tirelessly alongside the PIF to secure the necessary funding for transfers and other investments.

Her departure, along with Merhdad Ghodoussi, followed a turbulent period marked by the club’s struggles to meet Premier League profitability and sustainability requirements. These challenges culminated in the sale of promising young players like Elliot Anderson and Yankuba Minteh to avoid a points deduction, a decision that underscored the financial constraints imposed by the APT rules.

Despite stepping away from the daily operations of the club, Staveley remains a staunch supporter of Newcastle and continues to follow their progress closely. She publicly celebrated the team’s achievement in reaching the Carabao Cup final in February 2024, describing it as an “incredible” milestone.

Her influence at Newcastle extended beyond the boardroom, leaving a lasting impression on players, staff, and fans alike. Newcastle manager Eddie Howe, in particular, expressed his disappointment over her departure, acknowledging her as a key ally during her time at the club.

Staveley’s criticism of the APT rules has resurfaced in light of the tribunal’s ruling. In 2021, she openly voiced her frustration, describing the regulations as an attempt to curb Newcastle’s competitive potential. She suggested that rival clubs feared the possibility of Newcastle gaining an “unfair advantage” and actively sought to limit their progress.

These sentiments were reportedly used by Manchester City as evidence during their legal battle, highlighting the broader implications of the rules on clubs aiming to challenge the Premier League’s established hierarchy.

As the tribunal’s decision signals a shift in the financial landscape of English football, Staveley’s role in advocating for Newcastle’s interests remains a defining aspect of her legacy. Her efforts laid the groundwork for the club’s current trajectory, and her departure marked the end of an era characterized by ambition and resilience.

Since leaving Newcastle in 2024, Staveley has maintained a low public profile but continues to explore opportunities within the football world. Reports suggest she is working on a potential return to the sport, with a proposed bid to acquire Tottenham Hotspur.

Partnering with American and Middle Eastern investors, she has reportedly set her sights on purchasing the North London club, which carries an estimated price tag of £3 billion. This figure dwarfs the £300 million she and her consortium paid for Newcastle in 2021, reflecting the growing financial stakes in modern football.

While her plans for Tottenham remain speculative, Staveley’s impact on Newcastle’s history is undeniable. Her leadership during a transformative period helped elevate the club’s profile and laid the foundation for future success. For Newcastle supporters, her contributions will be remembered as instrumental in shaping the club’s identity during a critical phase of its evolution.

The tribunal’s decision to nullify the APT rules represents a significant victory for clubs like Newcastle, allowing them to leverage their resources more effectively and compete on a level playing field.

With the potential for increased sponsorship revenue and greater financial flexibility, Newcastle United is poised to continue its ascent in English football. However, the club must navigate the challenges of balancing ambition with regulatory compliance, ensuring that their progress remains sustainable in the long term.

As the dust settles on this landmark ruling, Newcastle’s journey toward becoming a Premier League powerhouse enters an exciting new chapter, one that holds promise for both the club and its passionate supporters.