Western United has officially lodged an appeal of Football Australia’s decision to withdraw its A-League licence.
As reported by Star Weekly, the club’s current ownership have been unable to satisfy the financial criteria required to maintain their licence, and had seven days to appeal the decision to strip the club of its licence.
United has been in financial turmoil for months, with players and staff paid late in April, May and June while superannuation payments were also delayed.
United, led by chairman Jason Sourasis, had hoped their issues would be solved by a planned takeover by American group KAM Sports, which was announced in May – but that is yet to be completed.
After releasing a statement on Monday saying it had been granted more time, United released another statement on Wednesday confirming the status of its appeal.
“Western United Football Club confirms it has today lodged an appeal of Football Australia’s decision to withdraw its A-League licence,” the statement said.
“As this is a regulatory process, the club will be making no further comment at this time.”
In its statement on Monday, the club thanked its supporters.
“We’d like to thank our loyal fans, members and partners that have rallied around the club in the past week. The support and love for the green and black from the community has been overwhelming. It is these supporters that we will continue to fight for.
Previously an FA spokesperson said that the First Instance Board (FIB) – an independent body established under the National Club Licensing Regulations – has convened and determined that Western United has failed to meet the criteria required to be granted an A-League licence.
“As such Western United FC’s licence has been withdrawn, effective immediately,“ they said at the time.
“Western United FC can appeal this decision to the appeals body established under the regulations on certain grounds outlined in the regulations.
“This outcome, while regrettable, reflects Football Australia’s ongoing commitment to upholding the integrity, stability, and fairness of competitions for all clubs, players, and stakeholders.”
-with AAP
