Kick It Out: Sanjay Bhandari to step down as president
According to Bbc.
Context
Sanjay Bhandari, who assumed the presidency of Kick It Out in 2019, was instrumental in transforming the organization, which was founded in 1993. His leadership not only brought internal improvements, but also external recognition, such as the MBE received in 2024, underlining the importance of his contribution to football and the fight for equality.
Why this matters
Sanjay Bhandari's departure as chairman of Kick It Out marks the end of a significant era for the organization, which has been a crucial voice in the fight for equality and inclusion in English football. Under his leadership, Kick It Out has implemented structural changes that have strengthened its governance and financial independence, reflecting an ongoing commitment to promoting a more inclusive environment in sport.
Main conclusions
- Kick It Out: Sanjay Bhandari to step down as president.
- Sanjay Bhandari, president of Kick It Out since 2019, will leave at the end of 2026/27.
- Kick It Out: Chair Sanjay Bhandari to step down from role at end of 2026-27 season - BBC Sport.
Sanjay Bhandari will step down as president of Kick It Out at the end of the 2026/27 season, the British organization has confirmed. Appointed in 2019, the director will complete more than seven years at the helm of the institution before passing on the testimony, in a planned and phased transition.
During his tenure, Bhandari led a profound internal transformation. Kick It Out highlighted improvements in financial independence and governance, the appointment of a new board and leadership team, as well as the implementation of a revised organizational structure. The period will also be remembered for the public recognition of the leader: in 2024, Bhandari was awarded the MBE for services rendered to football as part of his work in the organization founded in 1993.
In a statement released by Kick It Out, Bhandari described his time in the role as a privilege: "It has been a tremendous honor to chair Kick It Out. Our 'Football United' strategy is deliberately built on the vision of bringing together federations, clubs, players, fans, communities and partners to create lasting change. In a world that sometimes feels increasingly negative and divided, we consciously seek to adopt a different tone." He also highlighted the importance of future leadership: “The new president will play a pivotal role in helping Kick It Out achieve this vision, leading an experienced and committed board and working closely with our executive director to represent an organization that has become one of the most respected voices for equality and inclusion in sport.”
Kick It Out has confirmed that it will begin the recruitment process immediately, with the aim of identifying a preferred candidate by the end of December. The chosen one must work in parallel with Bhandari until the end of the 2026/27 season, ensuring a smooth transition, before formally assuming the presidency on July 1, 2027.
Founded in 1993, Kick It Out has established itself as a reference in the English football ecosystem, promoting equality and inclusion through campaigns, education programs, fan support and collaboration with sector entities. The “Football United” strategy is the most recent framework for action, seeking to coordinate the efforts of organizations, clubs, players, fans and communities to combat inequalities and build safer and more representative environments in sport.
With Bhandari's leadership approaching its end, the priority now is to ensure the continuity of the work developed over the last decade, maintaining institutional stability, public credibility and the ability to influence the main players in football. The announced transition, scheduled in advance, aims precisely to safeguard these objectives and ensure that the next presidency inherits a robust organization positioned to deepen its impact.
What happens next
With the recruitment process for a new president already underway, Kick It Out is preparing for a transition that will be fundamental to the continuity of its mission. The new leader will be responsible for maintaining and expanding the 'Football United' strategy, which aims to unite all football stakeholders, from federations to fans, to drive lasting change in society.
Frequently asked questions
What happened to Sanjay Bhandari?
Sanjay Bhandari will step down as president of Kick It Out at the end of the 2026/27 season.
Who confirmed Sanjay Bhandari's departure?
British organization Kick It Out has confirmed Sanjay Bhandari's departure.
Why is Sanjay Bhandari stepping down as president now?
Bhandari's departure is part of a planned and phased transition after more than seven years at the helm of the institution.
What changes occurred during Sanjay Bhandari's tenure?
Duran
During his tenure, Bhandari has driven improvements in Kick It Out's financial independence, governance and organizational structure.
How important is future leadership at Kick It Out?
Future leadership will be crucial in helping Kick It Out realize its vision of equality and inclusion in sport.