The Premier League has released a statement through Associated Press Journalist Rob Harris
It reads: “The Premier League has today agreed the arrangement of Richard Scudamore stepping down from his role as Executive Chairman. The decision was made by the Audit and Remuneration Committee and the New-Executive Directors, supported and endorsed by the clubs.
The payments, which will eventually total £5m, will be spread over the next three years and are in consideration of three important areas. It was vital that a comprehensive set of non-compete clauses were extended, to ensure the best possible protection for the future of the Premier League.
“It was agreed that it is crucial for the League’s ongoing success that Richard’s unique knowledge and experience remain available in an advisory capacity.
“The payments are in recognition of the outstanding work Richard has carried out over the last 19 years.
The Premier League would like to put on record our thanks to Richard for his exceptional contribution to the success of the League.”
Seriously, I struggle with this. Surely this fella was being paid a decent wage to do his job, unfortunately the same can’t be said for the many millions who follow the sport. As part of his decent wage he must have had a decent pension plan, unlike the many of the millions who follow the sport. And surely if someone who is in charge of one of the biggest money makers in world sport isn’t smart enough to put plenty aside for his retirement, frankly, how the hell did he get the job?
Now if he came out and said he was going to donate the whole five mill to charity, food banks, grass roots development etc. I would applaud the whole thing, but since he hasn’t, once again I see greed as the driving force in a sport which I love.
Kind of makes you die a little inside…
Spot on Neil.