Kick It Out Chair Sanjay Bhandari Steps Down

Sanjay Bhandari, the chair of Kick It Out, will step down from his role at the end of the 2026-27 season after seven years in the position.

Bhandari was appointed chair of Kick It Out in 2019 and has overseen a transformation of the organisation, including improved financial independence and governance, during his tenure. He was awarded an MBE in 2024 for his services to football.

Kick It Out will begin a formal recruitment process to identify a successor by the end of December 2026. The new chair is expected to work alongside Bhandari during the remainder of the season before formally taking up the position on July 1, 2027.

Bhandari has been chair of Kick It Out for more than seven years, and the organisation was established in 1993. During his time as chair, Kick It Out launched its new five-year strategy, Football United.

## What happens next The new chair will play a pivotal role in helping Kick It Out deliver its vision, by leading an experienced and committed board, and working closely with the chief executive to represent an organisation that has become one of the most respected voices for equality and inclusion in sport.

Kick It Out has established itself as a leading voice in campaigning for policy change, and the new chair will be expected to continue this work. The organisation's Football United strategy is built on a vision of bringing together governing bodies, clubs, players, supporters, communities, and partners to create lasting change.