Domey doesn’t sound that disappointed. Whilst Becker criticises FA’s organisation sills
https://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/360931096/auckland-fc-and-wellington-phoenix-axed-australia-cup
https://www.friendsoffootballnz.com/2026/01/29/auckland-fc-and-phoenix-see-upside-in-their-removal-from-australia-cup/
Auckland FC chief executive Nick Becker told News.com.au: “As a club. we are disappointed because it means that we won’t be going after a trophy, but on the flip side, it’s a competition that cost us money, (and) is badly organised.
https://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/360931096/auckland-fc-and-wellington-phoenix-axed-australia-cup
https://www.friendsoffootballnz.com/2026/01/29/auckland-fc-and-phoenix-see-upside-in-their-removal-from-australia-cup/
Auckland FC chief executive Nick Becker told News.com.au: “As a club. we are disappointed because it means that we won’t be going after a trophy, but on the flip side, it’s a competition that cost us money, (and) is badly organised.
“We had games moved at the last minute for pretty basic reasons last year.
“Not being part of it will allow us to properly organise our pre-season.”
Phoenix general manager David Dome told News.com.au: “We have fond memories of our time in the competition over the past 12 years, but it was an extremely costly exercise having to travel to all corners of Australia for each round as we weren’t allowed to host a Cup match.”
Last season, the Phoenix had to play ties in Darwin and Melbourne.
“This change will give us more certainty as we plan our men’s pre-season fixtures each year.”